The spreading cotoneaster is an attractive, flowering, medium-sized shrub that is popular as both a hedge and specimen plant. Keep reading to learn more about spreading cotoneaster care and tips for growing spreading cotoneaster shrubs in the garden and landscape.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Cotoneaster divaricatus, the spreading cotoneaster, is a species of flowering plant in the family Rosaceae. It is native to China, and has been introduced to Ontario in Canada, the Midwest United States, northern and central Europe, Kenya, and the South Island of New Zealand.
They are very tolerant of the cold and are hardy down to USDA zone 4. They reach a mature height of 5 to 7 feet (1.5-2 m.), with a spread that is equal or slightly greater. The shrubs have a distinctive growing pattern that earns them their name, with branches that grow horizontally for several feet (1 to 2 m.) before sweeping slightly downwards. These branches tend to reach right down to the ground.
The leaves are glossy and dark green, turning attractive shades of yellow, red, and purple in autumn before eventually dropping. Attractive spring clusters of small, pink flowers give way in autumn to numerous bright red berries that are very eye-catching and last through early winter.
The Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International lists it in its Invasive Species Compendium.
II. How to Grow and Care
Spreading cotoneaster is a resilient and low-maintenance shrub, ideal for gardeners seeking a plant with minimal care requirements. It thrives in well-drained soils and requires full to partial sunlight to flourish. One special care point is to ensure moderate watering, as spreading cotoneaster is drought-tolerant but may suffer in overly wet conditions. Pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth, making it particularly suitable for hedges and ground cover applications.
Sunlight
Spreading cotoneaster thrives in conditions of partial sun where it receives an ideal balance of light intensity and shade, beneficial for its robust growth and health. Spreading cotoneaster is also tolerant to full sun, adapting with potential leaf adjustments to accommodate the stronger exposure. While spreading cotoneaster can prosper under various light scenarios, its preference for dappled sunlight, especially in the heat of the day, ensures it avoids scorching yet still carries out photosynthesis efficiently.
Planting spreading cotoneaster outdoors should be in a spot where such conditions are met, ideally a garden setting that mimics its optimal light preference while averting the extremes of dense shade or harsh, unfiltered sunlight.
Watering
Spreading cotoneaster thrives in temperate regions with moderate moisture levels, exhibiting a high tolerance for occasional dry spells. Its water habits are balanced, neither requiring constant dampness nor complete aridity. Watering should occur once every two weeks to maintain optimal health. As an outdoor plant often used for ground cover due to its spreading habit, spreading cotoneaster benefits significantly from mulching which helps retain soil moisture and reduces the need for frequent watering.
Soil
This cotoneaster plant likes moist, well-drained soil. It is extremely tolerant of less than ideal conditions including poor soil, alkaline soil, salt, drought, wind, and soil compaction.
Fertilizing
To maintain spreading cotoneaster’s vigor, apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support new growth. During the growing season, switch to a high-nitrogen fertilizer to enhance foliage density. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks, with quantities following product guidelines for shrubs of its size. Seasonal changes dictate reduced feeding; halt in late fall to prevent overstimulation before dormancy. Always water spreading cotoneaster post-fertilization to distribute nutrients and prevent root burn. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
This cotoneaster can withstand heavy pruning and works well as a hedge, though many gardeners choose to leave it untrimmed because of its unique spreading habit.
Propagation
A resilient, low-maintenance species, spreading cotoneaster thrives when propagated through cuttings. Choose healthy semi-hardwood stems for higher success rates. A rooting hormone can enhance growth. Plant these cuttings into well-draining soil, ensuring enough moisture and indirect light. Patience is key, as roots develop slowly, but once established, they provide a robust foundation for spreading cotoneaster. Regular watering and avoiding over-fertilization will foster healthy growth consequently.
Transplanting
For spreading cotoneaster, the most opportune time for transplanting is in the gentle embrace of early to mid-spring, ensuring a strong start in a location bathed in full sunlight or partial shade. Select a spot with well-draining soil to promote a thriving growth.
Overwintering
These shrubs need little winter care but should be occasionally checked for rabbit or other damage. If rabbit damage is found you can protect the plant with a fence formed with hardware cloth (looks like chicken wire but with small square holes). The branches of the plant should be tied in towards the center, then a circle of hardware cloth can be placed around the outside. The base of the hardware cloth should be buried in the soil or mulch. This protection should be installed in late November and removed in mid April.
III. Uses and Benefits
This cotoneaster is a valuable landscape plant that offers good foliage, flowers and fruit. These shrubs are often used in mass plantings or as a hedge, screen, border or foundation.
