The Center of My Burning Bush Is Turning Brown

The burning bush turns bright red in autumn.

The burning bush shrub (Euonymus alatus) is native to China and Korea. This hardy deciduous shrub is known for its brilliantly red leaves in the autumn. A burning bush with wilted leaves and brown discoloration is suffering from severe stress.

Climate Considerations

A burning bush may turn brown from insufficient water or drainage. A particularly rainy growing season may cause underlying soil to become waterlogged; the bush may experience root rot, causing branches to die back. Severe lack of rainfall may dehydrate the plant, causing it to shrivel and turn brown.

Common Pests

Two tiny insects named scale and spider mites commonly afflict the burning bush plant. Scales suck the sap from the plant branches and spider mites feed on the leaves. In severe infestations, the bush may drop leaves, turn brown where the insects have fed and branches may die back.

Treatment

A burning bush needing more water will quickly recuperate with replenishment. A bush situated in a waterlogged area requires better drainage or a new location. Pesticides or insecticidal soap will alleviate or eradicate insect infestations.

References

• Utah State University: FAQ -- Euonymus Alatus Compacta
• Iowa State University: Bugs on Burning Bush
• University of Illinois Extension: Trees Showing Drought Stress
• Penn State: Euonymus Scale Fact Sheet