Cotoneaster acuminatus aka Acuminate Leaved Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster acuminatus is a deciduous shrub known as acuminate cotoneaster. The RHS also calls it pointed-leaved cotoneaster. It belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. Its native range spans parts of China and the Himalayas. It also includes Bhutan, Nepal, India, and northern Myanmar. It grows in forests, including woods with kharshu oak. In Nepal, it also grows on moist, open hillsides. These habitats lie at heights of 4,265–11,483 feet [1,300–3,500 metres].

The shrub grows to about 13 feet [4 metres] tall. It sheds its leaves rather than keeping them through winter. Flowers open in June and contain both male and female organs. Flies and midges pollinate them, while bees also visit. At close range, the flowers smell like fish that has rotted. Seeds ripen from September through November. The fruit feeds many kinds of birds through winter. These links with insects and birds give it wildlife value.

This is an easy shrub to grow in varied soils. It prefers good soil but also grows in poor ground. Sand, loam, and heavy clay can all suit it. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and strongly alkaline conditions. It also grows in lime-rich and peaty soils. Good drainage matters; marshy or waterlogged ground does not suit it. Soil can be dry or moist. Full sun and partial shade both work for planting. Shade, though, reduces the amount of fruit it bears. It tolerates air pollution and suits woodland edges or dappled shade. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 4–8.

The fruit yields a dye with rose and tan tones. The wood is hard, with a fine, even grain. Its small size limits the uses of the wood. People use branches for walking sticks and woven baskets. They also use them for twig bridges in the Himalayas. PFAF lists no known food or medicinal uses. It reports no known hazards, but this does not establish safety.

Seeds offer one way to raise new plants. Sow ripe seed in autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed may need both warm and cold treatment. Germination can take as long as two years. The shrub crosses freely with other cotoneasters. Seed from controlled crosses or known wild plants helps preserve its identity.