Cotoneaster

Sun Needs:

• Full sun to partial shade
• Best berry production and foliage color in full sun
• Tolerates light shade but may become leggy

Bloom Time:

• Late spring to early summer
• Small, white to pink flowers in clusters
• Followed by red, orange, or black berries in fall

Size:

Height: 1 to 10 feet (varies by species and cultivar)

• Groundcover types: 1–2 feet
• Shrub and hedge types: 3–10 feet

Width: 3 to 12 feet. Spreading or arching habit depending on variety.

Attributes:

• Glossy green foliage with attractive fall color (red, orange, or purple)
• Bright berries persist into winter
• Excellent for erosion control, slopes, and wildlife gardens
• Drought-tolerant once established
• Attracts birds and pollinators

Care Tips:

• Plant in well-drained soil; tolerates poor or rocky soils
• Water regularly during establishment, then only during dry spells
• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape or control size
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Pest watch:

• Monitor for fire blight, scale, and spider mites