Burning Bush

As fall arrives, one bush stands out from the others for its gorgeous fall color; however, this fall beauty, unfortunately, also possesses a dark side. This shrub is a member of the bittersweet family and is native to northeastern Asia, Japan, and central China. Burning bush was first introduced to the United States in the mid-1800s. It was extremely popular due to its brilliant red fall foliage, corky-winged branches, and orange-red fruits, which helped provide year-round interest in the landscape. Burning bush is very adaptable, tolerating a range of sun conditions and various soil conditions and handling the wide range of weather conditions we experience in Kansas. The issue with burning bush is that those orange-red seeds that provide winter interest will sprout, and the plants will take over the landscape bed, forested areas, and wherever the birds spread the seeds. This plant has been listed on the state noxious weed list in several states and has been known to come up from seed in Butler County. While I won’t say you must pull these plants up, they do bear-watching to ensure they aren’t spreading in your landscape.

 

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu