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Description
Cotoneaster Acuminatus, also known as the Cranberry Cotoneaster, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to China and has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, with a rounded shape and arching branches. The leaves are small, ovate, and dark green, turning reddish-purple in the fall. The flowers are pink or white and appear in late spring to early summer, followed by bright red berries in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
Appearance
Cotoneaster Acuminatus is a beautiful plant that adds color and texture to any garden. The shrub has a dense, bushy growth habit with arching branches that create an attractive, rounded shape. The leaves are small, ovate, and dark green, with a slightly glossy texture. In the fall, the leaves turn reddish-purple, adding even more color to the plant. The flowers are pink or white, small, and appear in late spring to early summer. The plant produces bright red berries in the fall, which attract birds and other wildlife.
Care Guide
Cotoneaster Acuminatus is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotoneaster Acuminatus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause damage to the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaves to yellow and dry out. Use a miticide to control them.- Fire blight: This bacterial disease can cause leaves to turn brown and die. Prune infected branches and dispose of them immediately.
Habitat
Cotoneaster Acuminatus is native to China and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cotoneaster Acuminatus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough for the plant to grow and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Cotoneaster Acuminatus be pruned?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches and to maintain its shape.
Q: How tall can Cotoneaster Acuminatus grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide.
Q: What is the best time to plant Cotoneaster Acuminatus?
A: The best time to plant the shrub is in the fall or spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cotoneaster Acuminatus:- Cotoneaster Franchetii- Cotoneaster Horizontalis- Cotoneaster Simonsii- Cotoneaster Cornubia- Cotoneaster Lacteus
References
– “Cotoneaster Acuminatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287648.- “Cotoneaster Acuminatus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/61887/Cotoneaster-acuminatus/Details.
