
Common Name: Chicago Fire Burning Bush
Euonymus alatus ‘Chicago Fire’ — commonly called Burning Bush — is a dense, deciduous shrub valued for its outstanding fall color and strong, upright form. It features medium green foliage through the growing season that transforms into a brilliant, fiery red in fall, creating a dramatic landscape display. The stems have distinctive corky ridges (wings) that add subtle winter interest after the leaves drop. Its consistent shape and vibrant color make it a popular choice for hedging and mass plantings. Mature Size: Width: 6–8 ft Height: 8–10 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: Upright, dense, multi-stemmed shrub with a broad oval shape Brilliant red fall color provides strong seasonal interest Corky, winged stems add texture and winter interest Excellent for hedges, screens, mass plantings, and foundation use Highly adaptable and easy to grow Maintenance: Prune as needed to shape or control size Tolerates heavy pruning and shearing Monitor spread in natural areas, as it can self-seed in some regions
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Shrub |
| Width: | 6-8' |
| Height: | 8-10' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Zone: | 3 - 8 |
| Deer Resistant: | No |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | Yes |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Landscape/Use: | Mass Planting, Hedge, Accent Plant, Foundation Plant |
| Shape: | Upright, Compact |
| Soil Type | Clay, Normal, Sandy, Well Drained |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Red |