WHAT: Cooper’s cotoneaster is a low, tight evergreen groundcover with small and tidy evergreen leaves mixed with bright red berries in late summer and winter.
WHY PLANT IT: Unlike other cotoneasters, this one, also known as cotoneaster cooperi, is slower and more restrained in its growth. Though thick enough to keep out many weeds, it still allows flowering bulbs and other ornamentals to pop through for added seasonal interest.
WHERE: Cotoneasters are adaptable plants and will tolerate a variety of soil conditions, including heavy clay and sand, but they grow best in average, well-drained garden soil. Cooperi’s most compact growth occurs in full sun.
HOW: Plant it around rockeries and watch the growth wind around the stones, or use it as a small-scale groundcover with dwarf conifers and small shrubs.
ACTUAL SIZE: When mature, it will grow up to 6 inches tall and 6 feet wide, though it is easily kept in bounds with light pruning.
LEARN MORE: See www.greatplantpicks.org.
Source: Great Plant Picks
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