Care of the shrub Cotoneaster pannosus or Silverleaf cotoneaster |
The genus Cotoneaster, family Rosaceae, includes 50 species of shrubs native to cold and temperate regions of Asia and Europe. Some species are: Cotoneaster pannosus, Cotoneaster lacteus, Cotoneaster horizontalis, Cotoneaster vulgaris, Cotoneaster acuminatus, Cotoneaster congestus, Cotoneaster mycrophyllus, Cotoneaster buxifolius, Cotoneaster wardii, Cotoneaster franchetii. Common names: Silverleaf cotoneaster, Silver-leaved cotoneaster. This species is native to China. They are evergreen shrubs with arched branches that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The leaves are alternate, oval in shape and light green on the upper surface and whitish on the underside; in autumn they can take on reddish tones. They produce abundant white flowers and numerous very decorative red fruits. Silverleaf cotoneaster is used in rockery, as isolated specimens, in large pots, on slopes or to form small bushy groups. Cotoneaster pannosus can be grown in full sun, shaded or semi shaded exposures. It resists frost well. The soil can be a mixture of garden substrate with 25% coarse sand and 10% organic matter (compost). The transplant is done in spring or autumn. Silver-leaved cotoneaster has a certain resistance to drought and little tolerance to excess humidity; it's recommended to wait until the soil has dried before watering. Fertilize with compost or manure in early spring. Prune lightly in late winter to control growth and remove wilted branches. Prune intensively every 5 years to strengthen the plant. The main enemies are overwatering and aphids and mealybugs that appear in case of excessive drought. Cotoneaster pannosus propagates by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings in autumn or summer. |
Images of the shrub Cotoneaster pannosus or Silverleaf cotoneaster |