burning bush

Euonymus alatus
Celastraceae

In understory of upland woods
Winged stem
Opposite leaves on long drooping branches
Inconspicuous green flowers
Close up of green flowers
As yet unripe fruits
Ripening fruit
Red leaves and fruit on understory plant
Leaves in full sun turn red in fall

The burning bush is so called because its foliage turns a brilliant red in the fall.  It is a deciduous shrub native to China, Japan, and Korea.  Its sale is now prohibited in Massachusetts and New Hampshire where it is thought to be an invasive species.  However, it is still widely planted and sold in many other states.  Unfortunately, its continued spread is guaranteed because birds are attracted to its fruits.  At Salter Grove, it is found growing in the understory along the Upland and Pond Trails.