Euonymus alatus

An otherwise uninteresting plant during the spring and summer, euonymus alatus also known as a burning bush gradually turns from green to a brilliant red with orange-hued berries. A common plant, especially when one is atuned to spot it, euonymous alatus is considered by many to be an invasive species. Recently, Botany Photo of the Day profiled the rather similar euonymus europeanus.

Thoughts of invasion notwithstanding, this plant grows at a fast clip, around 13 to 24 inches per year. It is a an easy plant to maintain as it tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and enjoys everything between full shade to full sun. Come winter, feel free to hack away as this euonymous tolerates heavy pruning. It'll still love you come April.