Euonymus alatus Little Moses

Dwarf Burning Bush

Euonymus alatus ‘Little Moses’ — commonly called Burning Bush — is a compact, dense deciduous shrub valued for its brilliant fall color and small, manageable size. It forms a tight, rounded habit with rich green foliage through the growing season that transforms into a vivid, bright red in fall. The stems feature subtle corky ridges (wings) that add winter interest after leaf drop. Its smaller stature makes it well-suited for foundation plantings and low hedges.

Mature Size:
Width: 3–4 ft
Height: 3–4 ft

USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best fall color in full sun)
Soil: Average, well-drained soils; highly adaptable
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Provides cover for birds; fruits may be eaten by birds

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Compact, rounded, dense shrub
Bright red fall color provides strong seasonal interest
Corky, winged stems add subtle winter texture
Excellent for foundation plantings, borders, and low hedges
Highly adaptable and easy to grow

Maintenance:
Prune as needed to maintain shape or size
Tolerates shearing and rejuvenation pruning
Monitor spread in natural areas, as it can self-seed in some regions

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub

Height

3-4'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Normal, Well Drained

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Compact, Compact Rounded

Bark

Corky

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No