About

Cotoneaster salicifolius 'Red Flare' is a low-growing, semi-evergreen shrub characterized by its long, pliable branches that create a thick, mounded carpet of narrow, oval, shiny dark green leaves. In spring, small clusters of white flowers appear along the stems, later giving way to clusters of dull red berries in the fall.

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
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Matforming
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
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 by semi-ripe 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, honey fungus, leaf spot, silver leaf and virus diseases