The Euonymus japonicus ‘Paloma Blanca’ is a compact, multi-stemmed evergreen shrub known for its striking seasonal foliage display. This cultivar, a type of Japanese spindle, has a dense, rounded growth habit, typically reaching about 30 inches in both height and spread. Its most notable feature is the new growth that emerges in spring and early summer, which is a brilliant, pearlescent white or greenish-white. This bright flush of foliage provides a stark contrast against the mature, glossy, dark green leaves, offering a distinctive two-toned look for a couple of months. As the seasons progress, the new leaves gradually mature, darkening to the rich green of the older growth. This shrub provides year-round interest and is suitable for low hedging, borders, or container planting.
Establishing the Plant
Choosing the correct planting site is important for the shrub’s health and the best display of its unique white foliage. Euonymus ‘Paloma Blanca’ is adaptable, thriving in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade. However, the brilliant white new leaves are susceptible to scorching in intense, direct afternoon sun, so planting in a location that receives afternoon shade in hotter climates is beneficial. The shrub is tolerant of a variety of soil types, including chalky, loamy, or sandy textures, and can tolerate a wide pH range, from acidic to alkaline soil conditions. It requires a well-drained site to prevent root issues.
When planting, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the excavated soil, tamping gently to remove air pockets, and water the plant thoroughly immediately after planting. If planting multiple shrubs for a hedge or border, space them approximately 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for their compact, mature spread.
Routine Maintenance Schedule
Once the shrub is established, a consistent maintenance plan will support its dense growth and maximize the white foliage display. Watering should be done regularly, especially during the first growing season, to help the plant develop a strong root system. After establishment, ‘Paloma Blanca’ is moderately drought-tolerant but requires supplemental watering during extended dry periods or extreme heat. Apply water directly to the soil at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry, which helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer should be applied in the early spring, just before the new growth begins. A layer of organic mulch, such as well-rotted compost or manure, applied 2 to 3 inches deep around the base each spring, helps to conserve soil moisture and provides a slow feed.
Pruning is best performed in late spring or midsummer after the initial flush of white foliage has faded and darkened to green. Pruning can be done lightly to maintain the desired compact shape and size, or more selectively to remove dead or damaged branches. Since the appeal of this plant is the white new growth, trimming promotes the development of fresh shoots, extending the attractive display. Avoid cutting back into very old, woody stems, and never remove more than one-third of the total foliage at one time, as this can stress the shrub.
Protecting Against Common Issues
This Euonymus cultivar is susceptible to a few specific pests and environmental challenges. The most serious insect pest is the Euonymus scale (Unaspis euonymi), which appears as small, oyster-shaped or narrow white, armored coverings on the stems and leaves. Heavy scale infestations can lead to yellowing leaves and potentially the death of branches or the entire plant. Other potential pests include spider mites and vine weevils.
Powdery mildew is a common fungal issue that appears as a white or grayish coating on the leaves. This is more likely to occur in periods of high humidity or poor air circulation. Prevention involves ensuring good air flow around the shrub and avoiding overhead watering. Protection from harsh, cold winter winds is recommended to prevent leaf scorch, and applying the spring mulch layer helps insulate the roots in colder climates.