Wintercreeper Climbing Euonymus

Wintercreeper is an evergreen woody shrub or vine whose juvenile stems spread along the ground and can climb when they find support. Foliage and mature size vary with cultivar and growing conditions, so plan for both a low groundcover form and the possibility of vigorous vertical growth. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/euonymus-fortunei/common-name/winter-creeper/) [Virginia Cooperative Extension](https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/2901/2901-1078/2901-1078.html) ## Garden Use Use it as a groundcover or train it on a wall or trellis only where spread can be contained. Virginia Cooperative Extension notes wintercreeper can move into adjoining beds; North Carolina Extension reports it escapes into native forests and is listed as invasive in North Carolina. Check local invasive plant guidance before planting, and keep stems from reaching trees or natural areas. [Virginia Cooperative Extension](https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/2901/2901-1078/2901-1078.html) [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/euonymus-fortunei/common-name/winter-creeper/) ## Growing Conditions It grows in full sun to shade and accepts well-drained clay, loam, or sand. Established plants tolerate dry periods, while wet ground can cause problems. Species-level dimensions are variable: a clipped groundcover stays low, a shrub may reach several feet, and a supported vine can grow much taller. ## Maintenance Trim to keep the planting within its boundary, and remove climbing stems before they establish on trees. Watch for euonymus scale and winter leaf burn.