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shrub

Littleleaf Cotoneaster*

Cotoneaster microphyllus

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Littleleaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster microphyllus) at The Farm At Green Village

Littleleaf Cotoneaster flowers

Littleleaf Cotoneaster flowers

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

* This is a "special order" plant - contact store for details

Height:  3 feet

Spread:  6 feet

Sunlight:  full sun 

Hardiness Zone:  4a

Other Names:  Rockspray Cotoneaster

Description:

A very showy dwarf variety covered in a froth of white flowers in spring on delicately arching/spreading branches, and showy bright red fruit in fall; tiny foliage adds a fine texture, makes a stunning groundcover

Ornamental Features

Littleleaf Cotoneaster is smothered in stunning clusters of white flowers along the branches in mid spring, which emerge from distinctive red flower buds. It has dark green deciduous foliage which emerges light green in spring. The tiny glossy oval leaves turn yellow in fall.

Landscape Attributes

Littleleaf Cotoneaster is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with a shapely form and gracefully arching branches. It lends an extremely fine and delicate texture to the landscape composition which should be used to full effect.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and should only be pruned after flowering to avoid removing any of the current season's flowers. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

  • Disease

Littleleaf Cotoneaster is recommended for the following landscape applications;

  • Mass Planting
  • Rock/Alpine Gardens
  • General Garden Use
  • Groundcover

Planting & Growing

Littleleaf Cotoneaster will grow to be about 3 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 6 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.

This shrub should only be grown in full sunlight. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist growing conditions, but will not tolerate any standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America.

 

* This is a "special order" plant - contact store for details

 
 
Hardiness Zone Plant Height Minimum Sunlight
Characteristics
Massing  Rock  Garden  Groundcover 
Applications
Flowers  Texture  Attracts Wildlife 
Ornamental Features