Euonynus europaeus (Spindle)
Spindle is found at the edges of Toll Wood but may spread further into areas where the canopy is opened up.
Autumn colour is rich reds and oranges. The seeds are distinctively deep pink small 'cushions'.
The slow growth makes this a good choice for small gardens and hedges (it can be trimmed back if required).
Their longevity, up to one hundred years, makes Spindle an important species in ancient woodland ecology. Slow growing, Spindle wood has been used for fine items such as needles, spindles in spinning and weaving, knitting needles. Also used for artists' charcoal. The wood is not particularly durable.
Biodiversity value: MEDIUM/HIGH
Spindle is a native ancient woodland indicator that we find along the woodland edge and may spread if we open the canopy within the wood. This small tree (to 9m height) offers nectar for pollinating insects that visit the white flowers in spring. Leaves are enjoyed by caterpillars (e.g., spindle ermine moth, and common emerald moth) sucking aphids and some birds, turning a rich deep red/orange in autumn. Insects and the vivid pink berries in the autumn support a wide range of birds (blackbirds, thrushes, and finches) and mammals into the autumn (foxes like them apparently). The complex and thorny habit provide year-long shelter.
The berries look like pink and orange popcorn, but are toxic to humans as are the leaves.
