Eastern Wahoo
Euonymus atropurpureus
native
Other Names:
Burning-bush, Spindle, Spindle Tree, Strawberry Bush, Wintercreeper, Hearts-a-bustin', Hearts Bursting with Love
Eastern Wahoo is a native shrub found in parts of Virginia. Birds can safely eat the fruit, but not many species choose to do so. The fruit is toxic to humans. Eastern Wahoo attracts beetles, flies, and small bees; some moth caterpillars, weevils and other insects eat the foliage. It is popular among gardeners, because in addition to the colorful fruit and petals, the leaves turn pink in the fall. The name "wahoo" comes from the Dakota language and means "arrowwood". Another name is "Burning-bush", probably from the bright red fruit.
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