Spindle Tree (Euonymus europaeus)

Family: Celastraceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Euonymus europaeus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 6 m (19ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from September to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Sap/Syrup

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

An edible yellow dye is obtained from the fruit and seed. Pink from the fruit case, orange from the seed. These reports should be treated with some caution since many members of this genus are poisonous. — An edible yellow dye is obtained from the fruit and seed.; Pink from the fruit case, orange from the seed.; These reports should be treated with some caution since many members of this genus are poisonous.; One report suggests that the plant is a source of a manna, there are no further details.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods, scrub and hedges, usually on calcareous soils. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)