Culture
Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Wide range of soil tolerance. Branches root where they touch the ground. Does not do well in the hot and humid conditions of the deep South.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Cotoneaster apiculatus, commonly called cranberry cotoneaster, is a dense, broad-upright, somewhat mounding deciduous shrub with stiffly arching branches. Typically grows to 3' tall with a spread to 6'. Small pinkish flowers in late spring give way to red (cranberry-like) berries (pomes) which mature in late summer and persist into winter. Rounded-ovate glossy green leaves (to 3/4" long) turn attractive shades of purple, red and bronze in autumn.
Genus name comes from the Latin cotonea meaning "quince" and aster meaning "resembling" or "similar to".
Specific epithet means terminating abruptly in a short and often sharp point.
Problems
Spider mites can be a problem in hot, dry conditions. As with many other rose family members, there is some susceptibility to fireblight (sudden wilting and darkening of the stems).
Uses
Versatile shrub that can be used to cover large areas. Effective on banks or slopes for erosion control. Foundation plant. Low informal hedge.