Care of the shrub Cotoneaster lacteus or Late cotoneaster |
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The genus Cotoneaster, family Rosaceae, includes 50 species of shrubs native to cold and temperate regions of Asia and Europe. Some species are: Cotoneaster lacteus, Cotoneaster horizontalis, Cotoneaster pannosus, Cotoneaster vulgaris, Cotoneaster acuminatus, Cotoneaster congestus, Cotoneaster mycrophyllus, Cotoneaster buxifolius, Cotoneaster wardii, Cotoneaster franchetii. Common names: Late cotoneaster, Milkflower cotoneaster. This species is native to China. They are evergreen shrubs with an elegant bearing and arched branches that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height and width. The oval leaves are up to 6 cm (2.36") long, have well-marked veins and are dark green on the upper surface and greyish on the underside. The flowers are small but appear in very showy white or pink umbels; attract bees. They bloom in summer. They produce a large quantity of red fruits that are very decorative since they remain on the plant for a long time. They are used to form hedges and screens, as isolated specimens or in small bushy groups. Cotoneaster lacteus can grow in full sun or semi-shade exposures; they resist frost well. They can be grown in any type of soil that is well drained but prefer to contain organic matter. Water regularly, waiting until the soil is almost dry. In winter you have to reduce the risks. It is important not to overdo it with watering. Fertilize in fall with compost or manure and with mineral fertilizer in mid-spring. Lightly prune the hedges at any time of year. They are quite resistant to pests and diseases but can be attacked by aphids and mealybugs. They propagate by cuttings in spring or early summer and by seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the shrub Cotoneaster lacteus or Late cotoneaster |
 Cotoneaster lacteus  Cotoneaster lacteus  Cotoneaster lacteus  Cotoneaster lacteus  Cotoneaster lacteus  Cotoneaster lacteus |