Cotoneaster acutifolius - Peking Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster acutifolius is a wildlife-friendly shrub, attracting bees and other pollinators with its spring flowers. In late summer to fall, small black berries (drupes) appear, providing food for birds and other wildlife. The dense foliage and arching branches also offer shelter for small animals and birds.

• Seasonality: Deciduous; loses its leaves in winter and regrows in spring.
• Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer (May-June)
• Bloom Description: Cotoneaster acutifolius produces small, star-shaped, white to pale pink flowers in late spring. The flowers are not particularly showy but are an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators.

• Hedges and windbreaks
• Privacy screens
• Wildlife plantings (birds eat the berries)
• Foundation plantings
• Informal borders
• Suitable for urban landscapes due to pollution tolerance
  
  
  
  
  
  

The leaves of Peking Cotoneaster are small, glossy, and dark green during the growing season, creating a dense, fine-textured canopy. In the fall, the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of red, burgundy, or purple, adding dramatic seasonal color to the landscape. The leaves are simple and oval-shaped, providing a neat and refined appearance.

– Bloom time: Late spring (May to early June)

– Flower color: Pale pink to white

– Flower form: Small (less than 1/2 inch wide), five-petaled, slightly fragrant

– Arrangement: Usually borne in small clusters along the stems

– Ornamental value: Not showy, but charming when viewed up close and valuable for pollinators

How and When to Plant:

• Planting Season: Best planted in early spring or fall when temperatures are cool, allowing the shrub to establish roots before the growing season or winter dormancy.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil but is highly adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. It can tolerate slightly alkaline to acidic conditions. Adding organic matter can improve soil quality and moisture retention.
• Spacing: Space plants 4-6 feet apart to allow for mature spread, particularly if using as a hedge or screen.

Planting Instructions:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Place the shrub in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.
3. Backfill with soil, tamp gently, and water thoroughly.
4. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Purning : Pruning is minimal but can be done to maintain shape or control size. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to encourage healthy growth and airflow. Light trimming throughout the growing season can help keep the plant tidy, especially if used as a hedge.

Peking Cotoneaster is drought-tolerant once established but prefers regular watering during the first growing season. Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it can tolerate dry conditions but performs best with occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods.

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the best foliage color and berry production, plant Cotoneaster acutifolius in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers and berries in lower light conditions.

Harvesting : The small, black berries produced by Peking Cotoneaster in late summer to fall are primarily ornamental but can be harvested for use in dried arrangements. These berries attract birds, adding wildlife value to your garden. Although the berries are not typically consumed by humans, they add seasonal interest and texture to the shrub.

Fertilizing : Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Cotoneaster acutifolius is generally a low-maintenance shrub and does not require heavy fertilization. A second light feeding after flowering can help sustain the plant’s vigor through the growing season.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds. Mulching also helps protect the shallow root system from extreme heat or cold.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Peking Cotoneaster is generally pest- and disease-resistant. However, it may occasionally experience issues with aphids or scale. Ensuring good air circulation and proper watering practices will help prevent common fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
• Winter Care: No special winter care is needed for this cold-hardy shrub. Its branches provide excellent winter interest with their arching form, and the berries offer food for birds during the colder months.

– Reproductive nature: Monoecious (male and female parts on the same plant), but cross-pollination improves fruit set

– Pollinators: Attracts bees, flies, and other small pollinating insects

– Note: While it can self-pollinate to some extent, planting more than one enhances berry production

Cotoneaster acutifolius is a dense, upright shrub with dark green foliage that turns yellow to reddish-purple in fall. It pairs well with plants that either complement its structure, fill in at its base, or bloom at contrasting times.

– Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’ or ‘Goldmound’ – Offers pink or chartreuse foliage to contrast the dark green leaves

– Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ – Big white blooms bloom later and complement its structure

– Salvia nemorosa – Adds vertical structure and rich purple color in early summer

– Nepeta (Catmint) – Soft mounding blue-flowered perennial that fills the space at the base

– Rudbeckia fulgida ‘Goldsturm’ – Warm yellow daisy-like flowers add color late in the season

– Lavandula (Lavender) – Aromatic and pest-deterring companion with grey foliage and purple blooms

– Juniperus horizontalis or dwarf pines – Low-growing evergreens offer year-round contrast

– Amsonia tabernaemontana – Adds delicate blue star-like flowers in spring and golden foliage in fall

– Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ – Succulent perennial that blooms in late summer, adding late-season interest

– Ornamental grasses (e.g., Calamagrostis, Panicum) – Provide movement and texture alongside its upright form