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Description
Cotoneaster Horizontalis, also known as the Rock Cotoneaster, is a low-growing, deciduous shrub that is native to China and parts of Asia. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is popular among gardeners due to its attractive foliage and vibrant berries.Cotoneaster Horizontalis is a spreading shrub that can grow up to 2 feet high and 8 feet wide. It has small, glossy green leaves that turn to a reddish-orange color in the fall. The shrub produces clusters of pinkish-white flowers in the spring, followed by bright red berries in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Cotoneaster |
Appearance
Cotoneaster Horizontalis has a unique horizontal branching habit, which gives it a distinctive appearance in the landscape. The shrub grows low to the ground and spreads outwards, creating a dense mat of foliage.The leaves of Cotoneaster Horizontalis are small and shiny, with a dark green color that turns to a reddish-orange in the fall. The flowers are small and pinkish-white, and appear in clusters in the spring. The shrub produces bright red berries in the fall, which are attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Care Guide
Cotoneaster Horizontalis is a relatively easy shrub to care for, as long as it is planted in well-draining soil and receives adequate water and sunlight.Water: Cotoneaster Horizontalis should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Cotoneaster Horizontalis does not require much fertilizer, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Cotoneaster Horizontalis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The shrub can tolerate a range of soil types, but does not do well in heavy clay soils.Sunlight: Cotoneaster Horizontalis prefers full sun to partial shade. The shrub can tolerate some shade, but may not produce as many flowers or berries.Hardiness Zones: Cotoneaster Horizontalis is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotoneaster Horizontalis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to a few common problems:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects may occasionally infest Cotoneaster Horizontalis. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Diseases: Cotoneaster Horizontalis may be susceptible to fire blight, a bacterial disease that can cause dieback and leaf spotting. The shrub can also be affected by powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. These diseases can be controlled with fungicides and proper cultural practices.
Habitat
Cotoneaster Horizontalis is native to China and parts of Asia, but has been widely cultivated in Europe and North America. The shrub is commonly used in landscaping and is often planted as a groundcover or low hedge.Cotoneaster Horizontalis prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The shrub can tolerate a range of soil types, but does not do well in heavy clay soils. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cotoneaster Horizontalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cotoneaster Horizontalis can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the shrub’s spreading habit.
Q: Do birds eat the berries of Cotoneaster Horizontalis?
A: Yes, birds are attracted to the bright red berries of Cotoneaster Horizontalis and will often eat them.
Q: Can Cotoneaster Horizontalis be used as a groundcover?
A: Yes, Cotoneaster Horizontalis is often used as a groundcover due to its low-growing habit and dense foliage.
Q: Does Cotoneaster Horizontalis require pruning?
A: Cotoneaster Horizontalis does not require pruning, but can be pruned in the early spring to control its size and shape.
Related Plants
- Cotoneaster Apiculatus
- Cotoneaster Franchetii
- Cotoneaster Lacteus
- Cotoneaster Salicifolius
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/cotoneaster/cotoneaster-shrubs.htm
- https://www.gardeningchannel.com/cotoneaster-horizontalis-growing-guide/
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/shrub/cotoneaster/
