Cotoneaster is a versatile and popular choice for hedges and landscaping due to its fast growth rate. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions, including different soil types and sun exposure. In general, cotoneaster can grow at a rate of around 20-40cm per year, making it a relatively fast-growing option for creating a hedge or filling in a garden space.
There are three main types of cotoneaster commonly used for hedges: Cotoneaster franchetti, Cotoneaster lacteus, and Cotoneaster horizontalis. Each of these types has its own growth characteristics and maintenance requirements.
Cotoneaster franchetti, also known as Franchet’s cotoneaster, is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. It features small, oval-shaped leaves and produces bright red berries in the fall. This type of cotoneaster has a relatively moderate growth rate, typically growing around 20-30cm per year. It requires a light trim once a year, preferably after the berries have fallen, to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.
Cotoneaster lacteus, or the red clusterberry, is an evergreen shrub that can reach heights of up to 4 meters. It has glossy, dark green leaves and produces clusters of small, red berries in autumn. Similar to Cotoneaster franchetti, Cotoneaster lacteus also grows at a moderate pace of around 20-30cm per year. It only requires a light trim once a year, after the berries have fallen, to keep it looking neat and tidy.
Cotoneaster horizontalis, also known as rockspray cotoneaster, is a low-growing shrub that can spread up to 2 meters in width. It has distinct horizontally spreading branches and small, dark green leaves. This type of cotoneaster has a slightly faster growth rate compared to the other two types, typically growing around 30-40cm per year. It requires pruning in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and maintain its desired shape.
In my personal experience as a gardener, I have found cotoneaster to be a reliable and relatively fast-growing plant. It is important to provide adequate space for its growth, especially for Cotoneaster lacteus and Cotoneaster horizontalis, which can spread quite wide. Regular pruning and maintenance will help promote healthy growth and ensure the hedge or landscaping feature remains well-maintained and visually appealing.
If you are looking for a fast-growing hedge or landscape plant, cotoneaster is a great choice. With its moderate to fast growth rate and low maintenance requirements, it can quickly fill in empty spaces and provide a lush and green backdrop to your garden.
