Colorata Wintercreeper Euonymus

Colorata wintercreeper is an evergreen, purple-leaved form of Euonymus fortunei that spreads as a low groundcover and can climb when it reaches support. North Carolina Extension describes mature plants as about 6–9 inches tall and 1–3 feet wide, with foliage that turns purple in fall and winter. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/euonymus-fortunei-colorata/common-name/wintercreeper/) [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6982/euonymus-fortunei-colorata/details) ## Garden Use Use it to cover a bounded bank or bed where seasonal foliage can be seen and spreading stems controlled. It roots where stems touch soil and may climb trellises, walls, or trees. North Carolina Extension lists this selection as invasive in that state and says it readily escapes into native forests; check local guidance before planting near natural areas. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/euonymus-fortunei-colorata/common-name/wintercreeper/) ## Growing Conditions Colorata grows in full sun or partial shade and accepts clay, loam, or sandy soil. It tolerates a range of moisture conditions, including occasional dryness. The RHS gives a broader height and spread range for plants grown against supports, so the smaller dimensions apply to an untrained groundcover. ## Maintenance Trim the edges and remove upright or climbing stems each year to keep the groundcover in bounds. Monitor for euonymus scale, winter leaf burn, anthracnose, and powdery mildew.