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Description
Cotoneaster Acutifolius, also known as the Peking Cotoneaster, is a deciduous shrub native to central and western China. This plant is part of the Rosaceae family and is known for its beautiful foliage, which is dark green and glossy. The plant is also known for producing small white flowers in the spring, which then develop into bright red berries in the fall. These berries are a significant source of food for birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
Appearance
The Cotoneaster Acutifolius is a dense shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Its leaves are small and pointed, measuring 1-2 inches in length, and are dark green and glossy. The plant produces small white flowers in the spring that are about 1/4 inch in diameter. These flowers have five petals and are arranged in clusters. In the fall, the plant produces bright red berries that measure about 1/4 inch in diameter. The berries are round and have a hard pit in the center.
Care Guide
The Cotoneaster Acutifolius is an easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate a variety of soil types.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 5-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cotoneaster Acutifolius is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fire blight, powdery mildew, and scale insects. If the plant is affected by these conditions, it can be treated with fungicides or insecticides.
Habitat
The Cotoneaster Acutifolius is native to central and western China and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and scrublands. The plant is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Cotoneaster Acutifolius a good plant for attracting wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant’s bright red berries are a significant source of food for birds and other wildlife.
Q: Can the Cotoneaster Acutifolius be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but it will need to be watered more frequently than if it were planted in the ground.
Q: Does the Cotoneaster Acutifolius require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but it can benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Where can I buy a Cotoneaster Acutifolius plant?
A: The plant can be purchased at most nurseries and garden centers, as well as online retailers.
Related Plants
- Cotoneaster Dammeri
- Cotoneaster Horizontalis
- Cotoneaster Microphyllus
- Cotoneaster Salicifolius
References
- “Cotoneaster Acutifolius.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277589&isprofile=0&
- “Cotoneaster Acutifolius.” Plant Database. Accessed July 23, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cotoneaster+acutifolius
- “Peking Cotoneaster.” Oregon State University. Accessed July 23, 2021. https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/cotoneaster-acutifolius
