Cotoneaster horizontalis

Description:

Cotoneaster horizontalis is loved for its herringbone branching, which gives it a naturally patterned, almost architectural look even in winter. It works beautifully on a sunny slope, over a low wall, or at the front of a border, then in summer it produces small white flowers and berries that wildlife make use of.

Cotoneaster horizontalis is a very compact evergreen shrub with a low, spreading shape and a gently weeping, umbrella-like outline. Its ideal as ground cover where you want a tough, low-maintenance plant that can knit an area together and reduce weeding. Pair it with spring bulbs or ornamental grasses, or let it trail over stone for a softer edge.

Its happy in sun or semi shade and will grow in most soilschalk, clay, loam or sandacross a wide pH range. Very hardy and adaptable, it copes well in exposed sites as well as sheltered gardens. Prune lightly after flowering if needed, mainly to keep it within bounds and maintain that crisp structure.