Deciduous shrubs – (non-flowering) – Spreading Cotoneaster

Spreading cotoneaster 

Botanical name: cotoneaster divaricatus 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 5-6 ft in height with a 6-7 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 6-8

Foliage color: green, yellow, red, purple

Growth rate: grows 1-1.5 ft per year 

Pruning instructions: prune to maintain desired size and shape in the spring

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings 

Landscape use: hedge, foundation planting, textural contrast 

Light needs: 4-6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: drought tolerant, deer resistant 

Watering instructions: allow the surface layer of soil to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use an all purpose plant food liquid fertilizer once a month throughout the spring and summer months 

Best time to plant: spring or summer 

Best type of soil: clay/loam 

Companion plants: thyme, lavender, sedum

Toxicity level: mildly toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: yes