Little-leaf Cotoneaster

The Little-leaf Cotoneaster is a charming shrub that grows slowly into a mound of slender branches, about 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. While young it looks like a miniature tree – even more so with a little careful pruning. The small leaves are glossy green, turning bronzy red in winter. In spring small white flowers stud the branches, and these are followed by ¼ inch bright red berries through fall and winter. This unique plant is often grown in miniature gardens, tray gardens, or as bonsai. It fits into a rock garden of any size, and once older it can be grown in a garden bed, perhaps beside a walkway.

• Charming miniature shrub with stiff branches like a tiny tree
• Minute leaves and miniature stems
• Tiny white flowers in spring and red berries in fall
• Perfect for miniature gardening, tray gardens and bonsai
• Great for natural rock gardens too

The Little-leaf Cotoneaster will grow well in full sun or some partial shade, in any well-drained soil. It prefers coarse, gritty soils, such as are found in rock gardens. It is easy to grow – but pay attention to watering during summer – and it generally stays free of pests or diseases. It can be allowed to grow naturally or trimmed into tree-like forms.