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Description
The Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a hybrid between Cotoneaster frigidus and Cotoneaster salicifolius. The plant is characterized by its arching branches that are covered in small, glossy green leaves. It produces small, pinkish-white flowers in the spring, which are followed by red berries that persist through the winter. The Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer is a popular garden plant due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
Appearance
The Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer is a medium-sized shrub that can reach up to 10 feet in height and spread. It has an arching growth habit with branches that are covered in small, glossy green leaves. The leaves are ovate, 1-2 inches long, and have a serrated margin. In the spring, it produces small, pinkish-white flowers that are followed by red berries in the fall. The berries are approximately 0.25 inches in diameter and persist through the winter. The plant’s bark is grayish-brown and has a slightly peeling texture.
Care Guide
The Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but does not do well in heavy clay soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to part shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not flower as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, it can be affected by fire blight, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. It may also attract aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer is native to the western regions of China and Tibet. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and rocky slopes. In its native range, it is often found growing on steep slopes or along stream banks. In cultivation, it is commonly used as a garden plant or as a hedge.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may not achieve its full size potential.
Q: How often should the Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer be pruned?
A: The plant should be pruned annually in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and to maintain its shape.
Q: Is the Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer deer resistant?
A: The plant is generally deer resistant, but it may be susceptible to browsing in areas with high deer populations.
Q: Can the Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the summer or fall.
Related Plants
- Cotoneaster apiculatus
- Cotoneaster dammeri
- Cotoneaster horizontalis
- Cotoneaster lacteus
- Cotoneaster salicifolius
References
- “Cotoneaster Watereri ‘John Waterer’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e250.
- “Cotoneaster Watereri ‘John Waterer’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7566/Cotoneaster-Watereri-John-Waterer/Details.
- “Cotoneaster Watereri John Waterer.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/cotoneaster-watereri-john-waterer.
