Have you seen this in the woods?  It's called Strawberry bush.  Its botanical name is Euonymus americanus.

 

It is a low growing shrub, 2-8 ft tall with squarish green stems and twigs.  It's kinda weedy looking.

 

The local name ("local" meaning Southern Appalachian Mountains) "hearts a-bustin' with love" refers to the rough, crimson seed pods splitting open to expose the bright glossy orange seeds.

 

You may know the cousins of the strawberry bush:  Winged Euonymus or Burning bush, Euonymus alatus.  They are sold in garden centers, and are often planted on roadways, medians, and interstate hillsides.  Joe Willig planted one near his garage.  It has gotten really big, and it now belongs to Mark and Karen.  I'm keeping an eye on that one, then I'll know when to start looking for their brilliant fall color around town.  It won't be long now....

 

Meanwhile, we are enjoying our Hearts a-bustin with love.  

 

 

HAPPY GARDENING!!