Hello Jonny,

Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) is an easy plant to grow with relatively few problems. Read more here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279120

It can, however, be susceptible to insect pests.

1. Spider mites cause a problem during hot dry spells. You may see webs but the insects are tiny and the only way to identify them is to shake a branch over a piece of white paper and see if the black spots move.
2. Euonymus caterpillars create a web around the leaves where they hide and feed on the foliage. They may cause severe defoliation which may weaken the plant. The adult, the euonymus moth is very small and white with black spot.
3. Scale insects can infest a shrub. They look like a shell-like growth on the plant. They suck sap from leaves and stems and may cause leaves to curl and go yellow.
4. Aphids can attack a burning bush and feed on leaves by piercing stems. They exude a sticky substance that drips down below the infested plant and can attract sooty mold and turn black.
5. Black vine weevils can infest burning bush. They leave ragged cuts around the edges of the leaves.

Environmental conditions may also affect a row of burning bush. Conditions such as too much water—has a sprinkler broken in the area flooding the plants; are the plants located close to a sidewalk where salt was spread over the winter; has the soil or nearby trees been treated with herbicides or insecticides that may harm the plants or have chemicals been sprayed in the area and drifted onto the plants.

The MSU Extension’s Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab will be able to provide an accurate diagnosis and recommendations for managing the problems. Go to: https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/

to learn how to submit a photo/sample to the lab.

If trees are involved a certified arborist will be able to assess the trees. To find an arborist in your area, go to www.treesaregood.org the website of the International Society of Arboriculture.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.