Bearberry Cotoneaster
cotoneaster dammeri
Also known as: ["Bearberry Cotoneaster","Prostrate Cotoneaster"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of white flowers followed by bright red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Cotoneaster |
| Botanical Name: | Cotoneaster dammeri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds or rockeries
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, provide bright indirect light or a south-facing window. Outdoor plants benefit from afternoon shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until drainage occurs; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates frost but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost in early spring/late fall; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to control size; selective removal of crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth. Prune after flowering to avoid cutting off buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary if growth slows or drainage is poor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on rainfall and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; browning or dieback in prolonged cold without protection.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows; roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use shade cloth in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; use appropriate fertilizer; apply at recommended dilution; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly during growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCotoneaster dammeri berries are toxic to cats, containing cyanogenic glycosides that can cause poisoning. Cats are particularly sensitive to such compounds, which can lead to severe health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Cotoneaster dammeri are toxic to dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset and more severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCotoneaster dammeri berries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon ingestion, leading to poisoning. The toxic effects are primarily gastrointestinal and neurological.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cotoneaster dammeri toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How much sunlight does Cotoneaster dammeri need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does Cotoneaster dammeri require frequent watering?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
