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Little Leaf Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster Microphyllus

Design with this plant

Overview

The Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster microphyllus) is an evergreen shrub, valued for its dense, mat-forming growth, reaching 2-3 feet in height with a 6 feet spread. Its tiny, glossy, dark green leaves contrast with striking, red berries in fall and winter. Hardy in USDA zones 5-8, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires well-draining soil. Ideal for ground cover, rock gardens, and slopes, offering year-round interest.

Sun FullWater MediumZones 5–7

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Medium
USDA zones
5–7

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Rosaceae

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Photos (54)

Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — Its tiny, glossy, dark green leaves contrast with striking, red berries in fall and winter
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — Hardy in USDA zones 5-8, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires well-draining soil
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — Ideal for ground cover, rock gardens, and slopes, offering year-round interest
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — scientifically dubbed Cotoneaster microphyllus
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — is a resilient evergreen shrub prized for its versatility and low-maintenance profile
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — making it a preferred choice for landscape designs
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — It typically reaches a height of 1 to 3 feet with a spread of 3 to 6 feet
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — growing at a pace of 6 to 12 inches per annum
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — Its dense growth habit and graceful
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — arching branches give it a cascading effect
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — particularly striking on slopes or over walls
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — rounded leaves that measure approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch long
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — These deep green leaves may exhibit pleasing bronze to red hues in the fall, providing seasonal interest
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — Spring brings a subtle charm as it's adorned with tiny
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — preferring full sun to partial shade exposure
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — It is adaptable to a range of soil types
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — from loamy to sandy and even clay soils
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — as long as they offer adequate drainage
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — This shrub is highly resistant to pollution and is a suitable choice for urban gardens
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — When designing with this plant
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — consider its use for erosion control on steep banks
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — in mass planting for a refined texture
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — or as a specimen in mixed shrub borders for year-round interest
Little Leaf Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster Microphyllus) — white flowers in the garden

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