SafePlants

Cotoneaster wardii: Ward's Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster wardii, commonly known as Ward's Cotoneaster, is an evergreen shrub appreciated for its ornamental value, particularly its berries, and its use in gardens. It is sometimes referred to by its outdated name, *Cotoneaster sternianus*.

Considerations for Pets

• Berries are produced during the autumn and winter months.

Considerations for Children

• The plant's berries are attractive and could be tempting to eat.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cotoneaster wardii W.W.Sm.
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
• Genus: Cotoneaster
• Synonym: Cotoneaster wardii hort.,p.p.618 is a synonym of Cotoneaster franchetii Bois.
• Authority: W.W. Smith (described in 1917)
• It is considered validly published.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native Range: China
• Introduced: First recorded in the wild in Co. Offaly (Ireland) in 1994.
• Status: Non-native in England and Scotland.

Morphological Characteristics

• Evergreen shrub growing up to 4 meters (approximately 13 feet) in height.
• Young branches are covered with white down, eventually becoming brown and glossy.
• Leaves are coriaceous (leathery), rugose (wrinkled), dark green and glossy on the upper surface, and whitish underneath.
• Arching habit.

Ecological Role

• Considered an invasive species.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Flowers attract bees.

Additional Information

• Hardy to zone (UK) 6.
• In leaf by January 12th.
• Flowering occurs in June.
• Cultivated under the name 'Gloire de Versailles' after being introduced to gardens in 1913.
• Primarily cultivated as a shrub for its red berries during autumn and winter.

Further Resources

• Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN), U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service.
• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
• Discover Life
• NCBI Taxonomy checklist