Winter Creeper
Euonymus fortunei
non-native
Other Names:
Purpleleaf Wintercreeper, Wintercreeper, Climbing Euonymous, Climbing Spindle-tree, Fortune's Spindle
Winter Creeper is a non-native shrub from East Asia. It has spread into some areas of Virginia, including Northern Virginia. It was introduced from China early in the 20th century and is now an aggressive invasive in the eastern half of the United States. It grows over anything in its way, including trees, and it outcompetes many native plants. The food value of the berries is lower than what many birds require.
Identification Tools
Illinois Wildflowers
Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States
Go Botany
Missouri Botanical Garden
Carolina Nature
Ranges
Winter Creeper growing along the stream bank in spring
Winter Creeper leaves in early May
Winter Creeper leaves protruding through fallen dry leaves in winter
Dessicated Winter Creeper leaves protruding through fallen dry leaves in winter, showing purple backs
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