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Description
Cotoneaster Integerrimus is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to Asia, specifically in China, Mongolia, and Russia. The shrub is commonly known as the entire-leaved cotoneaster or the Chinese cotoneaster. It can grow up to 4 meters tall and 4 meters wide, making it an excellent choice for hedging and ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
| Species | Cotoneaster Integerrimus |
Appearance
Cotoneaster Integerrimus has a dense branching habit that produces oval-shaped leaves that are about 4-6 cm long. The leaves are glossy and dark green, turning red in the fall. The shrub produces small, white, or pale pink flowers in May and June, followed by small red berries that persist into winter. The shrub has a spreading, arching habit that gives it an attractive appearance.
Care Guide
Water
Cotoneaster Integerrimus prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It can tolerate drought once it is established but will benefit from regular watering during dry spells.
Fertilization
The shrub does not require regular feeding but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Soil
Cotoneaster Integerrimus prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay soil, as long as it is well-drained.
Sunlight
The shrub prefers full sun to partial shade. It will tolerate shade but may produce fewer flowers and berries.
Hardiness Zones
Cotoneaster Integerrimus is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotoneaster Integerrimus is generally disease-resistant and not prone to pest problems. However, it may be susceptible to fire blight, leaf spot, and canker. It is also susceptible to damage from spider mites and aphids.
Habitat
Cotoneaster Integerrimus is native to Asia, specifically in China, Mongolia, and Russia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forest edges, meadows, and rocky slopes.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Cotoneaster Integerrimus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Cotoneaster Integerrimus is deer-resistant due to its thorny branches and bitter-tasting leaves.
Q: How often should I prune Cotoneaster Integerrimus?
A: Cotoneaster Integerrimus requires pruning once a year, in late winter or early spring. Prune out any dead or damaged branches and thin out the interior to encourage airflow.
Q: Can Cotoneaster Integerrimus be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Cotoneaster Integerrimus can be grown in pots as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Q: Can Cotoneaster Integerrimus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Cotoneaster Integerrimus can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings in the summer or fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings out of direct sunlight until they have rooted.
Related Plants
- Cotoneaster horizontalis
- Cotoneaster lacteus
- Cotoneaster salicifolius
- Cotoneaster dammeri
References
- “Cotoneaster Integerrimus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287234.
- “Cotoneaster Integerrimus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/2424/Cotoneaster-integerrimus/Details.
- “Cotoneaster Integerrimus.” Plants For a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cotoneaster+integerrimus.
