Japanese spindles are evergreen shrubs, or small trees with grafted crowns on short stems. They are very popular in southern countries and where winters are mild. The species has green leaves, but most attractive are varieties with varigated foliage.

The shrub is dense and grows medium fast. It benefits from pruning if you wish to keep it compact. Spindle responds very well to pruning even on older wood – it always re-sprouts reliably, just fertilize it after cutting into older wood. Cut off long lead and side branches to a size that will help you form a desired shape in future. Then trim or shear it again at the end of July on all sides to achieve a rich and dense plant. The denser foliage, the more resistant it gets against extreme winters.

Japanese spindles are quite soil tolerant. They will do well in almost any well-drained soil, preferably moist, but not wet. Grow them on any location from full sun to deep shade but beware that plants with variegated foliage may suffer from winter and early spring morning sun. If you can find them a spot with winter shade and basically any portion of summer sunlight you may get in your garden. The species with green leaves does not mind winter sun so much. Even if leaves are sunburnt in winter don't worry, the plant will make a lot of new ones in spring. Protect them from extreme winds. If grown in containers overwinter them in a frost-free location with enough light. Experience hardiness to -21°C (USDA zone 6b).
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