Cotoneaster franchetii

RHS Plant Profile
Franchet's cotoneaster
Shrubs

Evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub up to 3m high with arching branches bearing leaves 3.5cm long, glossy grey-green above with white beneath, and in early summer produces clusters of 5-15 white flowers, tinged pink, followed by oblong orange-scarlet fruits; the flowers are attractive to bees

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
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or 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, Semi evergreen
Habit
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
China (Yunnan)

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in full sun or partial shade in any soil that is well-drained; for hedging plant 40-60cm apart

Propagation

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

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

Pruning group 8 (early-flowering evergreen shrubs) - usually no pruning required

Diseases

May be susceptible to fireblight and honey fungus