About

Cotoneaster x watereri is a robust shrub that can reach heights of up to 5 meters. It features narrow, dark green leaves measuring up to 10 centimeters in length. In summer, it produces large white flowers arranged in flat-topped clusters, which are subsequently replaced by orange-red or red 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
North-facing, West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Pendulous weeping
Foliage
Evergreen, Semi evergreen
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Coastal, 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 part shade; tolerant of dry soils but needs protection from cold, dry winds in colder or northern areas
Pruning
Pruning group 8 or pruning group 13 for wall-trained specimens
Propagation
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
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