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Description
Cotoneaster Melanocarpus, also known as Blackfruit Cotoneaster, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the Himalayas region and can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant has an upright habit with arching branches and dark green leaves that are 2-3 cm long. In spring, it produces small, pinkish-white flowers that are followed by black, shiny fruits in late summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
Appearance
Cotoneaster Melanocarpus has an attractive appearance with its dark green leaves and shiny black fruits. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant has an upright habit with arching branches that give it a graceful look. In spring, it produces small, pinkish-white flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are followed by black, shiny fruits that are about 5 mm in diameter. The fruits remain on the plant until late fall, providing an excellent food source for birds.
Care Guide
Cotoneaster Melanocarpus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Cotoneaster Melanocarpus prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Cotoneaster Melanocarpus thrives in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Avoid planting in heavy clay soil.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many flowers or fruits.- Hardiness Zones: Cotoneaster Melanocarpus is hardy in USDA zones 5-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotoneaster Melanocarpus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Fire blight: This bacterial disease can cause wilting and blackening of the leaves and stems. Prune infected branches and dispose of them immediately.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant.- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the mites.
Habitat
Cotoneaster Melanocarpus is native to the Himalayas region, where it grows at high altitudes in rocky areas and on slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and snow.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does Cotoneaster Melanocarpus grow?
A: Cotoneaster Melanocarpus can grow up to 2 meters in height.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cotoneaster Melanocarpus?
A: Cotoneaster Melanocarpus is hardy in USDA zones 5-7.
Q: Does Cotoneaster Melanocarpus attract birds?
A: Yes, the black fruits of Cotoneaster Melanocarpus are an excellent food source for birds.
Q: What is the care guide for Cotoneaster Melanocarpus?
A: Cotoneaster Melanocarpus prefers well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and requires watering once a week during the growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Related Plants
– Cotoneaster Horizontalis- Cotoneaster Franchetii- Cotoneaster Apiculatus- Cotoneaster Dammeri
References
– “Cotoneaster Melanocarpus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279215&isprofile=0&cv=7- “Cotoneaster Melanocarpus.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/309628/Cotoneaster-melanocarpus/Details
