Roundleaf Cotoneaster
cotoneaster bullatus
Also known as: ["Roundleaf Cotoneaster","Round-leaved Cotoneaster"]
Overview
A deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub with rounded, dark green leaves and clusters of small white flowers followed by red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Cotoneaster |
| Botanical Name: | Cotoneaster bullatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter; ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; tolerates temperatures between -20°F and 90°F; prefers cool winters and moderate summers.
Protect from frost; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care based on seasonal extremes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly after pruning; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas; cease feeding in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or cactus mix with added sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead or crossing branches, encourage air circulation and healthy growth.
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; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade for recovery.
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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold, stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; branches can become brittle; growth may slow or stop in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in harsh winters; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and potential root damage due to overheating.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce ground heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, apply in spring, water after feeding, avoid late-season fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCotoneaster bullatus berries are toxic to cats, containing cyanogenic glycosides that can induce severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Cotoneaster bullatus are toxic to dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal and neurological distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCotoneaster bullatus berries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon ingestion, leading to toxic effects on the respiratory and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cotoneaster bullatus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Cotoneaster bullatus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.
Q: How often should Cotoneaster bullatus be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; 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 |
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