shrub

Peking Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster acutifolius

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous shrub

Native To

Northern China, Himalayas

Toxicity

Berries may cause mild stomach upset if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Cotoneaster acutifolius is a tough, upright, deciduous shrub native to northern China and the Himalayas. It is widely valued for its extreme hardiness and suitability for formal hedging. This species is particularly noted for its glossy dark green leaves, excellent tolerance of shearing, and attractive red to purple fall color, making it a classic choice for hedges in cold climates.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its primary ornamental use is as a formal hedge, where its dense, glossy foliage creates a solid green wall. It also offers subtle pinkish-white spring flowers, black autumn berries, and reliable reddish-purple fall color.

This is one of the hardiest and most reliable shrubs for creating privacy screens and hedges in cold northern climates. Its tolerance of pruning allows it to be maintained at a desired height and shape.

The flowers provide a nectar source for bees and other pollinators. The black fruits are eaten by birds, particularly in late fall and winter, providing a valuable food source.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun with well-drained soil.
This plant is highly adaptable and tolerates a wide range of soils.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Set the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
Backfill with soil and water well to settle.
Water regularly during the first season to establish.

Pro Tip

When planting a hedge, space individual plants 2-3 feet apart to ensure they grow together into a dense screen.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune or shear after flowering to shape the plant or maintain a hedge.
Provide full sun for the best foliage density and fall color.
Water during extended periods of drought, though it is very tolerant.
Clean up fallen fruit and leaves to maintain a tidy appearance.

Don't

Don't plant in poorly drained, waterlogged soils.
Avoid planting where fire blight is prevalent in the local area.
Don't allow weeds to compete with newly planted shrubs.
Avoid excessive fertilization, which is generally unnecessary.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Durable and dense formal hedgeHardy screening plantUtilitarian foundation planting

Companion Plants

Syringa vulgaris Spiraea x vanhouttei Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' Juniperus sabina 'Tamariscifolia' Hemerocallis 'Stella de Oro'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Peking Cotoneaster questions

What zones can Peking Cotoneaster grow in?

Peking Cotoneaster is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Peking Cotoneaster deer resistant?

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

When does Peking Cotoneaster bloom?

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

Does Peking Cotoneaster need full sun?

Peking Cotoneaster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Peking Cotoneaster drought tolerant?

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