Indian Cotoneaster
cotoneaster integrifolius
Also known as: ["Indian Barberry","Himalayan Cotoneaster"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to the Himalayas, known for its small, glossy leaves and clusters of 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 integrifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, slope or rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old wood to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but may produce fewer berries.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf scorch. Place in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal, but indoor plants need a bright, south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid waterlogged conditions; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8. Prefers temperatures between 50–75°F (10–24°C). Tolerates cold winters but benefits from protection in extreme heat.
Protect from late frosts; water early to avoid heat stress; ensure good air circulation in warm weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; fertilize before rain or watering for better absorption; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is semi-hardwood.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back of overgrown stems, and removal of crossing or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage berry production, and remove dead or diseased wood. Pruning also improves air circulation and reduces pest issues.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood first; thin crowded areas.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; dieback or delayed bud break in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop, dieback of tender growth, and reduced flowering the following season.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced berry production.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize in spring; use balanced formula; dilute liquid fertilizers; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCotoneaster integrifolius berries are toxic to cats, containing cyanogenic glycosides that can cause cyanide poisoning. This can severely affect the cat's respiratory and nervous systems, leading to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Cotoneaster integrifolius are toxic to dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. Ingestion can lead to cyanide poisoning, affecting the dog's respiratory and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCotoneaster integrifolius 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 hypoxia and metabolic acidosis.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cotoneaster integrifolius 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 due to its flowers and berries.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It requires moderate maintenance, including occasional pruning and pest control.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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