Winged spindle tree Plant Care

Winged spindle tree (Neuburgia alata) belongs to the Loganiaceae family within the Neuburgia genus. Winged spindle tree is native to Fiji. Winged spindle tree is also known as Winged euonymus, Burning bush.

Winged spindle tree displays a compact, upright shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Winged spindle tree produces small, tubular white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Winged spindle tree every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Winged spindle tree thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Winged spindle tree in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Neuburgia alata tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Winged spindle tree prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Winged spindle tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Winged spindle tree every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect light and well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Winged spindle tree is suited to USDA Zone 11a – 12b.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Winged spindle tree can spread to about 2 ft (0.6 m) and reach about 3 ft (1 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.6 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Winged spindle tree while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Winged spindle tree is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 11). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Winged spindle tree can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to neuburgia collina plant care, which shares the same genus.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Winged spindle tree is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Winged spindle tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 11a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 11a. Winged spindle tree is native to Fiji. In cooler regions, grow Winged spindle tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.