How Much Does a Dwarf Burning Bush Grow in the First Year?

Growth Rate

• In its first year, Euonumus alatus "Compactus" grows quite slowly, but eventually it can reach a size as large as 10 feet, so "dwarf" is somewhat misleading. After one year of growth, you can expect the plant to reach a height of around 6 inches, but growth rate varies according to conditions. Some plants may exhibit a growth rate of 12 to 18 inches per year. It is easy to control the plant's size through pruning. The corky bark present on this bush is reduced in appearance during the first year.

Controlling Growth

• Dwarf burning bushes are used as hedges, screens, borders or even bonsai trees, and are added as a landscape plant for their fiery color. They are versatile plants and their size can be restricted as desired. If planted in a container as a bonsai specimen, Compactus will grow just a few inches in the first year while putting most of its energy into its foliage.

  Although its growth rate is slow, Compactus is considered by some to be an invasive species due to its ability to propagate in the wild. In an Ohio State University study, flowering burning bush plants were found to develop an average of 1,238 seeds per plant across three years, in both sunny and shady conditions.

Ideal Conditions

• For the first 1 to 2 years of its life, provide plenty of water to the bush for vigorous growth and a substantial root system. The shrub will thrive in full sun or shade conditions, but for a fiery red fall color, plant in direct sunlight. Compactus will thrive in any soil, except for soggy soil that doesn't drain well. Protect it from rabbits and mice to reduce pest damage that could slow growth.

Description

• Compactus has thin stems that exhibit corky wings. Bright orange and red fruit is considered ornamental when enough of it is produced. It is tolerant of a range of pH conditions. Its leaves are dark green in spring and summer, and under full sun conditions are likely to emerge with crimson tones in the fall. Thanks to its showy colors and controllable growth, Compactus is arguably the most popular burning bush cultivar.