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Description
Cotoneaster Zabelii, also known as Zabel’s Cotoneaster, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to China and was introduced to North America in the early 1900s as an ornamental plant. It is a popular choice for landscaping due to its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and bright red berries. The plant grows up to 6 feet tall and wide and has an upright, spreading habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
Appearance
Cotoneaster Zabelii has dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and slightly serrated. The leaves are 1-2 inches long and turn a beautiful red color in the fall. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers in the spring that are followed by bright red berries in the fall. The berries are about 1/4 inch in diameter and attract birds to the garden. The plant has a dense, bushy habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape.
Care Guide
Cotoneaster Zabelii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
Water: Cotoneaster Zabelii prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Cotoneaster Zabelii grows well in a variety of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic soil. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss if necessary.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Cotoneaster Zabelii is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotoneaster Zabelii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fire blight, powdery mildew, and scale insects. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing proper care and pruning as needed. If you notice any signs of pests or diseases, treat them promptly with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Cotoneaster Zabelii is native to China, where it grows in mountainous regions and along riverbanks. In North America, it is commonly used as a landscaping plant and can be found in gardens, parks, and public spaces.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cotoneaster Zabelii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cotoneaster Zabelii can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Is Cotoneaster Zabelii deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Cotoneaster Zabelii is deer-resistant due to its thorny branches and bitter-tasting leaves.
Q: How often should Cotoneaster Zabelii be pruned?
A: Cotoneaster Zabelii should be pruned in the early spring before new growth begins. Prune back any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: How tall does Cotoneaster Zabelii grow?
A: Cotoneaster Zabelii can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide if left unpruned.
Related Plants
- Cotoneaster apiculatus
- Cotoneaster dammeri
- Cotoneaster horizontalis
- Cotoneaster lacteus
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden, Cotoneaster Zabelii, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l440
- The Spruce, Cotoneaster Zabelii: A Beautiful and Hardy Shrub, www.thespruce.com/cotoneaster-zabelii-3269250
- University of Connecticut Plant Database, Cotoneaster Zabelii, www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=124
