Spreading cotoneaster
Cotoneaster divaricatus · Rosaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around spreading cotoneaster and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen, small, glossy dark green turning red-orange in autumn
- Flowering
- Spring (May-June), small inconspicuous white-pink flowers
- Fruits
- Small scarlet berries persisting through autumn and winter
- Mature size
- 1.5 to 2 m in height, spreading and dense habit
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Central and western China
- Soil type
- Well-drained, undemanding, tolerates limestone
Care
Exposure
Install the cotoneaster in full sun or partial shade for optimal fruiting and beautiful autumn colouring. A sunny exposure accentuates the red tone of the berries and foliage. It tolerates windy locations well and is not sensitive to urban pollution.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system. Once established, cotoneaster is very drought-resistant thanks to its deep roots. In dry regions, watering in summer improves berry production.
Soil and planting
Cotoneaster accepts all well-drained soils, even poor or chalky ones. Avoid waterlogged terrain that promotes root rot. A light addition of compost at planting is generally sufficient.
Pruning and training
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact and dense shape. Cotoneaster tolerates formative pruning well. Avoid severe pruning which would reduce fruiting. Occasional thinning is enough to encourage air circulation.
Fertiliser
Cotoneaster is undemanding in nutrients. A balanced fertiliser application in spring is sufficient to maintain good vigour. Naturally rich soils do not require it.
Health and problems
Cotoneaster is very robust and rarely affected by disease. Occasionally watch for fireblight and powdery mildew in humid climates, particularly in wet springs. Improving air circulation through light pruning prevents most fungal problems.
Did you know?
The cotoneaster divaricatus is highly appreciated by birds who enjoy its scarlet berries in autumn and winter, ensuring good natural seed dispersal in gardens. Its scientific name 'divaricatus' refers to its characteristically spreading and divergent branches that give it a very graphic and recognisable habit.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.