Cotoneaster astrophoros is a low-growing, mat-forming evergreen shrub in the Rosaceae family that thrives in hardiness zones 4 to 7. This species produces tiny, fragrant white star-shaped flowers in late spring (May to June) followed by bright red berries that persist through the season, creating visual interest long after blooming ends. The plant's dark green foliage remains ornamental year-round, and its compact form makes it exceptionally useful as a ground cover or low hedge. Once established, it tolerates considerable drought and poor soil conditions, thriving where many ornamentals struggle.
Partial Sun
Moderate
4-7
12in H x 96in W
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Low
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Growing just 6 to 12 inches tall but spreading 6 to 8 feet wide over time, Cotoneaster astrophoros creates a dense, rooting mat of evergreen foliage punctuated by delicate spring flowers and showy red berries. The plant's extreme toughness distinguishes it from fussier ornamentals; it handles clay soil, shallow rocky ground, erosion-prone sites, and urban pollution with equal composure. Birds flock to its fruit, bringing wildlife activity to even the driest, most challenging garden corners.
Cotoneaster astrophoros excels as a ground cover for difficult sites, particularly on slopes prone to erosion or in urban gardens where pollution and poor soil limit other options. Its spreading, rooting habit makes it valuable for naturalizing in landscape settings and for creating low hedges or edging along pathways. The plant's year-round evergreen foliage and persistent red berries also provide food and cover for birds, supporting wildlife in gardens and parks.
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Transplant container-grown Cotoneaster astrophoros into the garden in spring or fall, spacing plants 4 to 5 feet apart. Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and ensure the soil drains well. Avoid planting in wet, poorly drained areas.
Prune Cotoneaster astrophoros only if needed to remove old, dead, or weak wood. If correctly sited, plants require little to no pruning and develop their natural spreading form without intervention. Avoid heavy pruning, which can disrupt the plant's mounding, ground-covering habit.
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“Cotoneaster astrophoros was formerly known as C. microphylla 'Teulon Porter' and represents the genus's long association with ornamental horticulture in temperate regions. The genus name derives from the Latin cotonea, meaning quince, and aster, meaning resembling, referencing the fruit's similarity to tiny quinces. This particular species has been selected and propagated in cultivation for its superior ground-covering abilities and reliability across a broad climate range.”