Cotoneaster cornifolius

RHS Plant Profile
cornus-leaved cotoneaster

Synonyms

Cotoneaster obscurus var. cornifolius

Shrubs

A large, multistemmed, semi-evergreen shrub with upright branches and glossy, oval, mid-green leaves with sunken veins, turning red in autumn. Small, pinkish-red flowers in late spring to early summer are followed by shiny, dark red fruit in autumn

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
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
Genus
Cotoneaster can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or small trees, with simple, entire leaves and clusters of small white or pink flowers in spring and summer, followed by showy red, purple or black berries
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun; tolerant of dry conditions once established

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe in autumn, or by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to brown scale, cotoneaster webber caterpillar and aphids including woolly aphid

Diseases

May be susceptible to fireblight, honey fungus, leaf spot, silver leaf and virus diseases