About

A robust and spreading shrub reaching approximately 5 meters in height, this plant features deeply veined, mid-green leaves that can grow up to 12 centimeters long. In early summer, it produces clusters of white flowers, which are succeeded by a profusion of small yellow berries that gradually turn pink as they mature.

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

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard 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
Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, with shelter from cold winds
Pruning
Pruning group 8 or pruning group 13 for wall-trained specimens
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to scale insects, cotoneaster webber caterpillar, and aphids including woolly aphid
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to fireblight and honey fungus