Burning Bush

As fall arrives, there is one bush that 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-1800’s and 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, a variety of different soil conditions along with handling the wide range of weather conditions that we experience in Kansas. The issue with burning bush is those orange-red seeds that provide winter interest will sprout and the plants take over the landscape bed, forested areas and anywhere 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 have to pull these plants up, they do bear watching to make sure 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