Cotoneaster

In spring and early summer, small pink-white flowers cover the branches. These are followed by clusters of red-orange or yellow berries in autumn/winter. Plants are mainly evergreen, with some deciduous cultivars that blaze with fiery autumn colour.

They flower and fruit best in full-sun, but will tolerate part shade. Plants will also grow in drier soils, once established.

They may struggle to establish in sites where exposed to very cold weather and drying winds.

Cotoneaster are a valuable source of nectar for pollinating insects. The berries are also highly attractive to blackbirds and other members of the thrush family.