About
Cotoneaster frigidus is a sizable deciduous shrub or modest tree that can reach heights of up to 10 meters. It maintains an upright growth habit in its youth before expanding as it matures. The leaves are oval, dull green, and can grow up to 15 centimeters in length, featuring sunken veins and slightly undulating edges. In summer, the plant produces abundant clusters of white flowers, which later give way to vibrant red berries that persist from autumn through winter.
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 shade, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
- Plant type
- Shrubs, Trees
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 8-12 metres
- Spread
- wider than 8 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Nepal, India
- 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
- Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade; tolerant of dry conditions once established
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate from seed (tree/shrub) or by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to brown scale, cotoneaster webber caterpillar and aphids including woolly aphid
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to fireblight and honey fungus