Common cotoneaster

Common cotoneaster (Cotoneaster integerrimus) is a deciduous, multi-stem shrub with a broad crown and a naturally informal outline. Small pinkish-white flowers open in late spring, followed by dark red fruits in late summer that birds consume. ## Form and seasonal interest The [USDA NRCS plant guide](https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_coin16.pdf) describes a shrub reaching about 2 meters, with flowers in May and June and fruit in August and September. [Oregon State](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/cotoneaster-intergerrimus) reports a mature plant around 7 feet tall and wide and lists USDA zone 3; the existing 1.83-meter dimensions and 5–7-foot labels remain consistent with that approximate size. Its seasonal fruit and branching make it useful where a natural shrub form is preferred over a tightly clipped hedge. ## Site and use Oregon State lists full sun to partial shade and notes tolerance of wind and poorer soils. USDA NRCS includes this species among shrubs suitable for windbreak plantings. The USDA guide describes its native range as Europe and temperate Asia, while noting that reports of a Chinese native range are debated. ## Maintenance Choose a site with enough space for a broad crown. Prune selectively to remove dead or damaged wood or to keep the outline in bounds; avoid repeated shearing if flowers and fruit are part of the planting’s appeal.