Rock Cotoneaster is a compact, spreading shrub that brings year-round visual interest to gardens in zones 5 through 7. This cultivar of Cotoneaster atropurpureus 'Variegatus' grows just 12 to 18 inches tall but spreads generously to 72 to 96 inches wide, earning its place as a low-maintenance ground cover or naturalizing plant. White flowers appear in late spring, transitioning to bright scarlet berries that ripen in fall and attract birds throughout the season. Once established, it tolerates drought and poor conditions with ease, thriving in full sun to partial shade with minimal fussing.
Partial Sun
Moderate
5-7
18in H x 96in W
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Low
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This is a deciduous shrub built for tough spots and lazy gardeners. Its prostrate habit and extensive spread make it exceptional for erosion control and filling difficult ground-level areas where other plants struggle. The combination of showy spring flowers and showy red berries provides season-long visual appeal, while birds flock to the fruit. Low maintenance and drought tolerance mean it rewards you with color and life without demanding constant attention.
Rock Cotoneaster serves primarily as a ground cover and naturalized planting, particularly valuable for slopes and areas prone to erosion. Its low, spreading habit and bird-attracting fruit make it equally at home in landscape situations where ornamental value and wildlife benefit are goals. Container-grown plants can be spaced 4 to 5 feet apart for mass plantings, or used individually in rock gardens and border edges.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Transplant container-grown plants in spring or early fall. Space 4 to 5 feet apart for mass plantings. Ensure soil is well-draining and moist but not waterlogged at planting time.
If correctly sited, Rock Cotoneaster may require little to no pruning. Its dense foliage and slow growth habit mean it naturally maintains shape. Prune only to remove dead wood or shape the plant if necessary. Be aware that dense branching can trap dead leaves and debris inside the canopy, which may require occasional careful removal to maintain plant health.
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“The genus Cotoneaster takes its name from the Latin 'cotonea,' meaning quince, and 'aster,' meaning resembling or similar to. This particular cultivar, 'Variegatus,' represents a more compact, slower-growing selection of Cotoneaster atropurpureus, specifically bred to reach just 1.5 to 2 feet tall rather than the species' full 2 to 3 feet, making it more suitable for smaller gardens and tighter planting schemes.”