shrub

Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster

Name: Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster
Brand: Cotoneaster
Availability: InStock

Cotoneaster 'Autumn Inferno'

$72.26

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

66 inches

Width

66 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

30+ years

Native To

Hybrid

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Cotoneasters are a diverse group of shrubs in the rose family, known for their hardiness, attractive berries, and value to wildlife. They range from tall shrubs to prostrate groundcovers. 'Autumn Inferno' is a modern hybrid selected for its spectacular fall display. It features an upright, arching habit, brilliant orange-red to burgundy autumn foliage, and an exceptionally heavy crop of large, cranberry-red berries.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Autumn Inferno provides a truly spectacular show in the fall, when its glossy green leaves transform into fiery shades of orange, red, and burgundy. This is complemented by a massive quantity of bright red berries that persist into winter, creating a stunning contrast against snow.

Its dense, upright-arching habit makes it an ideal choice for creating a fast-growing, low-maintenance informal hedge or privacy screen. It is also tough and adaptable, tolerating a wide range of soils and urban conditions.

The small, late-spring flowers are a source of nectar for bees. The abundant berries are a feast for birds throughout the fall and winter, providing crucial food when other sources are depleted.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Nature Hills

In Stock$72.26

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.
Ensure the soil drains well; cotoneasters hate wet feet.
Dig a hole twice the width of the plant's container.
Set the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole, firming the soil around the roots.
Water deeply after planting and mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

For the most intense fall color and heaviest berry production, plant this shrub in a location that receives full, direct sun all day.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during extended periods of drought.
Prune to maintain a desirable shape and size.
Allow for good air circulation to prevent disease.
Plant in groups for a massive fall color impact.

Don't

Do not plant in shady or poorly drained areas.
Avoid excessive fertilization, which can lead to lush growth susceptible to disease.
Don't shear into a tight, formal hedge; it spoils the natural arching form.
Avoid overhead watering late in the day.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant informal hedge or screenStunning fall-interest specimenEffective in mass plantings for bold color

Companion Plants

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' Juniperus sabina 'Blue Forest' Sedum 'Autumn Fire' Euonymus alatus 'Compactus'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster questions

What zones can Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster grow in?

Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster is hardy in USDA Zones 5–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster deer resistant?

Yes — Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster bloom?

Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster need full sun?

Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Autumn Inferno Cotoneaster handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.