Rockspray Cotoneaster horizontalis

Rockspray cotoneaster is a coarse, dense, slow-growing, shrub that reaches 2-3 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. The Latin name which includes horizontalis refers to its horizontal spreading habit.  In its southern reaches, it is semi-evergreen to evergreen. Grows best in well drained, loose, moist, loamy soil in full sun to part shade.  It will tolerate poor soil conditions.  Once established, it  will be drought tolerant.  Preferring somewhat cooler temperatures, it may not perform well in locations with hot summers, typically south of zone 7.

Spring blooms give way to abundant, showy red fruits. The reddish-purple fall colors are attractive in areas where it is deciduous. The unusual fishbone branch pattern provides year-round interest.

Typically used in rock gardens and slopes and can be trained to rock walls, trellises or fences.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Although relatively insect and disease free, lace bug, leaf spot, canker, fireblight and cotoneaster web worm can affect this plant.  Mites can also be an issue in hot, dry locations.  

Its self-sowing properties may necessitate removal of seedlings on a regular basis.  

If ingested, the fruits can cause stomach upset.

VIDEO created by Ryan Contreras for “Landscape Plant Materials I:  Deciduous Hardwoods and Conifers or Landscape Plant Materials II:  Spring Flowering Trees and Shrubs” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University