Burning bush is one of those plants that, on paper, seems hard to criticize. For years, gardeners have planted this deciduous shrub specifically for that moment in fall when its green leaves suddenly turn an almost impossibly vivid crimson.
It makes for a spectacular show, just as its name would suggest, and it’s very easy to see why it’s so popular. But there’s a problem; burning bush (Euonymus alatus) is native to Asia and has become invasive in many parts of the US, as its seeds can be spread by birds, allowing the shrub to escape gardens and establish in natural areas, where it can compete with native vegetation.
So if you’re thinking about adding one to your garden this fall, I’d pause before reaching for your wallet. Instead, there’s another native shrub I’d much rather plant.
A Great Burning Bush Alternative
Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica) might not have quite the same name recognition as burning bush, but it deserves a place on your fall planting list. This deciduous shrub is native to the eastern US, with glossy green foliage that can turn rich shades of red, orange, purple and maroon in the fall.
It’s long been praised as a wildlife garden must, as it provides cover and nesting habitat for birds, not to mention supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Better still, it produces fragrant white flower spikes in early summer even before all of that attractive fall foliage, adding some serious multi-season interest to the mix.
Now, that being said, not every Virginia sweetspire will necessarily produce exactly the same fall color. Growing conditions, climate and the individual plant can all influence the intensity and duration of the display, which means those who want all of that same burning bush-flavored glory ought to opt for the cultivar ‘Henry’s Garnet’ (available to buy here from Nature Hills).
Shop Henry’s Garnet:
Now, you don’t necessarily need ‘Henry’s Garnet’ to enjoy Virginia sweetspire (although this Little Henry® Virginia Sweetspire from Nature Hills is a pretty sweet option for those with small gardens). Still, if gorgeous fall color is one of your main reasons for making the swap from burning bush, it’s certainly worth seeking out, as is this stunning Fountains Of Rouge™ Virginia Sweetspire option.
I know, I know; I feel like I’m raining on a lot of people’s parades by shaking my head over burning bush, and I’m not going to pretend it isn’t beautiful. Honestly, if you’ve ever seen a mature specimen glowing red in the October sunshine, you’ll understand the appeal immediately.
Still, beautiful doesn’t necessarily mean appropriate for every garden, and several states have actually restricted or banned its use in landscaping. So if you’re standing in a garden center this fall admiring a burning bush, I’d take a moment before putting it in your cart.
Virginia sweetspire is not an identical replacement for burning bush, of course, but it does something that is arguably better: fragrant summer flowers, beautiful autumn foliage, habitat for wildlife, and a shrub that earns its place in the landscape for more than one spectacular season.
You can’t argue with that now, can you?
