Cotoneaster
Cotoneaster acutifolia
Pronounced co tone' y aster.
Wildlife Value
Provides roosting and loafing cover for numerous songbirds and game birds, and some use the fruits for foods, especially catbird and mockingbird. Not a preferred browse for animals. Introduced from northern China.
| Growth form | ovoid to irregular |
| Crown density | dense |
| Size | 6-8' high 3-5' spread |
| Drought resistance |
very good |
| Cold hardiness | excellent |
| Growth rate | rapid |
| Life span | moderate |
| Elevation range |
to 9,500 feet |
| Soil conditions |
good alkaline tolerance; grows well on most soils |
| Possible insect problems |
oyster shell scale |
| Possible disease problems |
fireblight; fairly resistant |
| Wildlife value | high: song and game birds |
| Seasonal color | brilliant red-orange foliage |
| Miscellany | can be clipped to a hedge |