Creeping Cotoneaster is a prostrate, slow-growing deciduous shrub that spreads wide while staying remarkably low, making it one of the most practical groundcovers for difficult sites. Hardy from zones 4 to 7, it reaches just 9 to 18 inches tall but spreads 48 to 72 inches wide, creating a dense, impenetrable mound of dark green foliage that turns a striking red in fall. Tiny white flowers tinged with pink appear in May through June, followed by an abundant crop of bright red berries that persist through the season and draw birds into your garden. This plant thrives on neglect once established, tolerating drought, poor soils, erosion-prone slopes, and urban conditions with equal grace.
Partial Sun
Moderate
4-7
18in H x 72in W
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Moderate
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The horizontal branches of Creeping Cotoneaster root where they touch the ground, allowing it to anchor itself into slopes and poor soils without intervention. Its glossy, dark green leaves with wavy margins create fine-textured foliage that shifts to warm red tones in autumn, extending its visual interest well beyond the blooming season. Bees visit the delicate spring flowers, and birds feast on the abundant red berries that follow, making this low shrub a living magnet for wildlife while asking almost nothing of the gardener in return.
Creeping Cotoneaster serves primarily as a groundcover for slopes, difficult banks, and areas where traditional lawns struggle. Its low, spreading habit and root-forming branches make it excellent for erosion control and naturalization in large-scale plantings. Container-grown plants space well 3 feet apart for mass plantings, allowing gardeners to quickly establish dense coverage across challenging terrain.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Seeds germinate between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Start indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost. Easiest propagation is by stem cuttings rather than seeds.
Transplant hardened-off seedlings or rooted cuttings outdoors after the last frost date when soil temperatures have warmed. Space plants 3 feet apart for mass plantings. Ensure the site has good drainage and receives full sun to partial shade.
If correctly sited, Creeping Cotoneaster may require little to no pruning. When pruning is necessary, prune after flowering or in late winter. Be aware that the dense, spreading foliage can trap dead leaves and debris, so occasional cleanup of the plant's interior may be needed to maintain appearance and prevent pest habitat buildup.
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