Cotoneaster horizontalis dried berries - Common Bonsai,Shrub - Rock Cotoneaster, Rockspray Cotoneaster Page

Cotoneaster horizontalis, or Rockspray Cotoneaster, is an exceptional addition to your landscape with its year-round visual appeal and adaptability. This slow-growing, semi-prostrate shrub, originating from Western China, is perfect for USDA Zones 5 to 7. It reaches a modest height of 2-3 feet and spreads elegantly to 6-8 feet wide, providing a lush, dense covering ideal for banks, slopes, and rock gardens.

In the spring, Rockspray Cotoneaster dazzles with clusters of tiny, pink, bee-attracting flowers. These blossoms give way to vibrant scarlet berries in late summer, offering a stunning contrast to glossy, dark green leaves that transition to a rich reddish-purple in fall. The plant's unique fishbone branching pattern adds architectural interest throughout the year.

This hardy shrub thrives in full sun to part shade and adapts well to various soil types, provided there's good drainage. Once established, it exhibits remarkable drought tolerance and is resilient against many urban challenges, including air pollution and erosion. Despite potential issues from pests like lacebugs or diseases such as fireblight, its low maintenance and high ornamental value make it a sought-after choice for gardeners and landscapers alike.

Whether you're seeking erosion control, a decorative ground cover, or a garden statement piece against rock walls, Rockspray Cotoneaster is a versatile and aesthetically pleasing option that invites both birds and admirers to your garden.