About

This evergreen shrub reaches approximately 1 meter in height, creating a compact mound of small, glossy, dark green leaves that measure up to 1 centimeter in length. During the summer, it produces clusters of tiny white flowers, which are succeeded by an abundance of vibrant orange berries.

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

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
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 if necessary, in mid or late summer, back to the nearest fading flowers or berry cluster
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids, woolly aphid, scale insects and cotoneaster webber caterpillar
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to fireblight and honey fungus