Euonymus Japonicus Microphyllus 'Tom Thumb'

Tom Thumb / Dwarf Spindle Bush / Japanese Spindle Bush / Dwarf Japanese Spindle Bush

Botanical Name: Euonymus japonicus microphyllus 'Tom Thumb'
Family: Celastraceae
Origin: Japan, China & Korea
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub (dwarf)

Overview

Euonymus japonicus ‘Tom Thumb’ is a compact, clip-friendly edging and low-hedge shrub for South Australian gardens. It forms dense, fine-leaf, glossy green mounds that stay neat with minimal trimming. Small greenish-white spring flowers add subtle interest. Perfect for borders, parterre edges, pots and tight spaces where year-round structure matters.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.3–0.6 m H × 0.3–0.6 m W
• Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Tiny, evergreen deep-green leaves; naturally compact, clip-responsive habit
• Flowers: Small greenish-white clusters in late spring–summer; occasional decorative berries may follow
  
• Seasonal Interest: Reliable year-round structure; fresh growth in spring–summer
• Wildlife Value: Dense cover for small birds; flowers offer light pollinator interest
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, second-line coastal-tolerant; frost hardy; clay-tolerant with improved drainage
• Planting Density: Edging/low hedge: 3–4 plants per metre (tight) • Mass/border: 2–3 plants per metre
• Pet Friendly: No — toxic if chewed (avoid ingestion by pets/children)

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best density and colour with good light)
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or improved clay; avoid waterlogging
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Mulch in spring; tip-prune/clip 2–3× per year to keep crisp lines; light balanced feed in early spring; monitor for scale in humid spots
• Lifespan: 20-30 years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Acid, Neutral, Alkaline — adaptable

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Privacy screening and boundary low hedges with a refined finish
• Mass plant for cohesive, low-maintenance ground-level structure
• Feature near entries, paths and outdoor living spaces; excellent in pots and formal parterres

Why You Will Love It

A space-savvy, evergreen classic: glossy fine foliage, effortless shaping, heat and coastal tolerance, and a naturally neat form — delivering polished edges and year-round structure with very little effort.