SafePlants

Spreading Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster divaricatus)

The Spreading Cotoneaster, scientifically known as Cotoneaster divaricatus, is a versatile shrub prized for its ornamental value and adaptability.

Considerations for Pets

• Spreading Cotoneaster produces red berries.
• The plant has small leaves.

Considerations for Children

• Spreading Cotoneaster produces red berries.
• The plant has small leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cotoneaster divaricatus Rehder & E.H. Wilson
• Common Name: Spreading Cotoneaster
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to western China. Specifically mentioned are Hupeh and Setchuan.
• Widely planted as a low-lying shrub for ground cover or borders, including in New England.
• Hardy to zone (UK) 5, indicating its ability to withstand certain cold temperatures.
• Also hardy to zone 4.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deciduous shrub that typically matures to 5-6 feet tall and spreads to 6-8 feet wide.
• Horizontally spreading branches that often reach the ground.
• Densely branched stems.
• Small, glossy, dark green leaves that turn yellow, red, or purple in the fall, providing vibrant autumn color.
• Tiny pink buds open in May to clusters of white flowers.
• Produces bright red berries in late summer that persist into winter.
• Upright-growing shrub, up to 2 m tall.
• Basal shoots on older plants are initially upright, then arched.

Ecological Role

• Suitable as a tough, drought-tolerant informal groundcover.
• Grows quickly, filling hillsides and parking lot strips.