Cotoneaster dammeri

RHS Plant Profile
bearberry cotoneaster

Synonyms

Cotoneaster humifusa
Cotoneaster humifusus

Shrubs

Vigorous, prostrate evergreen shrub about 20cm tall, spreading to 2m, with small, oval, veiny leaves to 4cm long, and small white flowers in small clusters or singly, in early summer, followed by bright red berries

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Matforming
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
China (Hubei)

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, with shelter from cold winds

Propagation

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

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Ground cover

Pruning

Pruning group 8 if necessary, in mid or late summer, back to the nearest fading flowers or berry cluster

Diseases

May be susceptible to fire blight and honey fungus