About

This robust evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub or small tree reaches heights of approximately 5 meters. It features narrow, lanceolate leaves that can grow up to 10 centimeters in length and are a deep green color. After flowering, which produces clusters of up to 50 white blooms, the plant yields abundant, round 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
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Coastal, Wildlife gardens, 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
Will tolerate dry situations but may need some shelter from cold, drying winds in colder climes
Pruning
Pruning group 8 or pruning group 13 for wall-trained specimens
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to scale insects, woolly aphid and cotoneaster webber caterpillar
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to fireblight and honey fungus