Rock Cotoneaster
cotoneaster microphyllus
Also known as: ["Dwarf Cotoneaster","Small-leaved Cotoneaster"]
Overview
A low-growing, spreading deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub with small, glossy leaves and clusters of white flowers followed by red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Cotoneaster |
| Botanical Name: | Cotoneaster microphyllus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or as a ground cover in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; suitable for rock gardens.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- 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); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F); tolerates light frost.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; apply before new growth emerges.
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 hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for stem cuttings; anytime for layering.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots within 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for larger branches, pruning saw for thick stems.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active 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; repot in fresh soil mix with 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 if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone, until water begins to drain from the bottom. Ensure the soil is moistened to a depth of 6–8 inches, and water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth slows; potential dieback of tender stems in severe cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in harsh winters; choose sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop feeding in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCotoneaster microphyllus berries are toxic to cats, containing cyanogenic glycosides that can cause cyanide poisoning. This disrupts oxygen transport in the cat's body, leading to severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Cotoneaster microphyllus are toxic to dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. Ingestion can lead to cyanide poisoning, which affects the dog's ability to transport oxygen, resulting in severe physiological distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCotoneaster microphyllus berries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon ingestion, leading to poisoning. The toxic effects are primarily due to the disruption of cellular respiration, causing oxygen deprivation at the cellular level.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cotoneaster microphyllus toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It requires moderate maintenance, including occasional pruning and care for potential fungal issues.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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