Cotoneaster rhytidophyllus

RHS Plant Profile
wrinkled-leaved cotoneaster

Other common names

mae ye xun zi

Shrubs

Evergreen shrub to about 4m tall with long, narrow, shiny, dark green leaves with sunken veins and pale yellow velvety undersides. Clusters of creamy-white flowers in late spring to early summer are followed by large, hanging bunches of small, orange-red berries from early autumn

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
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
Plant Range
SW China

How to Grow

Cultivation

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

Propagation

Propagate from seed (tree/shrub), or by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

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

Diseases

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