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Description
Cotoneaster Divaricatus, also known as Spreading Cotoneaster, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to China and has been introduced to many other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and wide, with a spreading habit. It has small, glossy leaves that turn red in autumn and clusters of tiny white or pink flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers are followed by bright red berries that persist into winter, attracting birds to the garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
Appearance
Cotoneaster Divaricatus has a spreading habit and can grow up to 2 meters tall and wide. It has small, glossy, dark green leaves that turn red in autumn. The plant produces clusters of tiny white or pink flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers are followed by bright red berries that persist into winter, adding color to the garden. The bark of the plant is brown and has a slightly rough texture.
Care Guide
Cotoneaster Divaricatus is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant needs to be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant does not need much fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a year in spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types as long as they are not waterlogged.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many flowers or berries.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy to USDA zones 5-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotoneaster Divaricatus is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to fire blight, which causes wilting and blackening of the leaves and stems. The disease can be controlled by pruning infected branches and applying a copper spray. The plant can also be attacked by spider mites, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Cotoneaster Divaricatus is native to China and is commonly found in mountainous areas. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and rocky slopes. The plant is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does Cotoneaster Divaricatus grow?
A: Cotoneaster Divaricatus can grow up to 2 meters tall and wide.
Q: When does Cotoneaster Divaricatus bloom?
A: Cotoneaster Divaricatus blooms in early summer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cotoneaster Divaricatus?
A: Cotoneaster Divaricatus is hardy to USDA zones 5-7.
Q: How often should I fertilize Cotoneaster Divaricatus?
A: You can fertilize Cotoneaster Divaricatus once a year in spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Cotoneaster Apiculatus
- Cotoneaster Franchetii
- Cotoneaster Horizontalis
- Cotoneaster Salicifolius
References
- “Cotoneaster Divaricatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c480.
- “Cotoneaster Divaricatus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18507/Cotoneaster-divaricatus/Details.
- “Cotoneaster Divaricatus.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/spreading-cotoneaster.
