Contents
Description
Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus, also known as the grey-leaved cotoneaster, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to China and Tibet, and it can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. The plant is known for its beautiful grey-green foliage that turns reddish-purple in the fall. It produces small pink or white flowers in the spring, followed by red berries in the fall. The berries are a favorite of birds, making Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus a popular choice for bird-friendly gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
Appearance
Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus has a dense branching habit and grows into a rounded shape. The shrub has oval-shaped leaves that are grey-green in color and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The leaves are about 1-2 inches long and are arranged alternately on the stem. In the fall, the leaves turn reddish-purple, adding a beautiful splash of color to the garden. Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus produces small pink or white flowers in the spring, followed by red berries in the fall. The berries are about 0.25 inches in diameter and are a favorite of birds.
Care Guide
- Water: Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus grows best in well-drained soil with a neutral pH level. If the soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH level.
- Sunlight: The shrub prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can affect blooming and growth.
- Hardiness Zones: Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fire blight, a bacterial disease that causes leaves and branches to wilt and turn brown. To prevent fire blight, avoid planting the shrub in areas with poor air circulation and prune infected branches immediately.
Habitat
Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus is native to China and Tibet, where it grows in mountainous regions and forests. The shrub prefers cool, moist climates and can tolerate some frost and snow. It is commonly used in landscaping and is a popular choice for bird-friendly gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to prune Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus?
A: Prune the shrub in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus grow in pots?
A: Yes, but the shrub may not grow as large as it would in the ground. Use a large pot with good drainage and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall.
Q: Is Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the shrub is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Cotoneaster Horizontalis
- Cotoneaster Franchetii
- Cotoneaster Dammeri
- Cotoneaster Apiculatus
References
- “Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c555.
- “Cotoneaster Glaucophyllus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/44833/Cotoneaster-glaucophyllus/Details.
- “Grey-Leaved Cotoneaster.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/cotoneaster-glaucophyllus-grey-leaved-cotoneaster.
