About

Cotoneaster sikangensis is an upright, deciduous shrub that can reach a height of up to 3 meters. It features oval, pointed leaves that can grow to 5 centimeters in length. The plant produces small white flowers, often with a hint of pink, which appear in clusters of 3 to 7 on short lateral branches. In the autumn, it yields plentiful, pear-shaped fruits that are shiny and orange-red, measuring around 1.5 centimeters long.

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, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
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
China (Sichuan)
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
Best grown in moderately fertile well-drained soil but tolerant of dry soils. Prefers full sun with shelter from cold winds
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate from seed (tree/shrub) or propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in early summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids including woolly aphid, scale insects and cotoneaster webber caterpillar
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to fireblight and honey fungus