About

Cotoneaster atropurpureus 'Variegatus' is a low, deciduous shrub characterized by its wide-spreading branches. It features small leaves edged in cream that take on a reddish hue during the autumn months. This plant produces small pink flowers, which give way to red berries.

About the genus

Cotoneaster comprises either deciduous or evergreen shrubs and small trees. The foliage consists of simple, whole leaves, while spring and summer bring clusters of small white or pink blooms. These flowers are succeeded by prominent berries that may be red, purple, or black.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Toxicity
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation
Will tolerate dry situations in full sun
Pruning
Pruning group 1 or pruning group 13 for wall-trained specimens
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to scale insects and woolly aphids
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to fireblight and honey fungus