About

Cotoneaster harrovianus is an evergreen shrub that can reach heights and widths of up to 3 meters. It features arching stems adorned with numerous dense clusters of white flowers, each displaying reddish-purple anthers. These floral clusters are found both along the branches and at their tips. The plant produces red fruits that develop their color gradually throughout autumn, with optimal visibility in December.

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, Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Loam, Sand, Clay

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Plant type

Shrubs

Habit

Bushy, Spreading branched

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

2.5-4 metres

Spread

2.5-4 metres

Time to full height

5-10 years

Suggested uses

City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Native to

W China, Vietnam

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 sun or partial shade; tolerant of dry conditions

Pruning

Pruning group 8 or Pruning group 13 for wall-trained plants

Propagation

Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe in autumn or propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to aphids, woolly aphid, scale insects and cotoneaster webber caterpillar

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to fire blight and honey fungus