About
Cotoneaster shannanensis is a robust, deciduous shrub that can reach heights of around 3 meters. It features sturdy, herringbone-patterned branches and small, oval leaves that are dark green, transitioning to vibrant red and purple shades in the fall. In summer, the plant produces numerous stemless pink flowers, which are succeeded by bright red berries in autumn, resembling small apples perched on the branches.
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
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal 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; 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 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