Euonymus atropurpureus (burning bush, eastern wahoo)

Euonymus atropurpureus (burning bush, eastern wahoo). . , Family: Celastraceae (Staff-tree or Bittersweet Family), Distribution: Burning bush is present in all central and eastern states, with the exception of Vermont. It is present in most of West Virginia's counties., Size: 12-36 ft. tall, Habitat/Description: This perennial tree or shrub grows in moist woods, floodplains, and stream banks with partial shade and fertile, moist soils. Purple flowers bloom in April, May, and June. In mid-fall, capsules (red or purple) split open to reveal red-coated seeds that persist well into the winter. Deer and rabbits feed on the hanging seeds. This is a native, non-invasive species., Ethnobotanical Uses: The common name "wahoo", which translates to "arrow-wood", was a term coined for this plant by Dakota tribes, who used the wood for their arrows. Many Native Americans used the powdered bark of eastern wahoo as a purgative and cathartic. Wahoo is very similar in appearance to the invasive European burning bush (Euonymus alata) used as an ornamental in many places, including Wesleyan's campus. Its flowers are greenish-white rather than purple.