Cotoneaster coriaceus aka Milkflower Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster coriaceus is an evergreen shrub in the rose family. Gardeners know it as Parney cotoneaster or thick-leaved cotoneaster. Its native range spans Tibet, south-central China, and northern Myanmar. It grows in scrub, hedges, rocky ground, and riverside thickets. Some wild sites have lime-rich soil. Its native habitats include grassy slopes in mountain regions.

This shrub has several stems and an open, spreading shape. Its branches arch outward, giving it a loose outline. Garden plants reach about 6–13 feet (1.8–4 metres) tall and wide. NC State gives a smaller range of 6–10 feet (1.8–3 metres). The RHS allows for plants reaching 13 feet (4 metres). Full growth can take 10–20 years. The stems are reddish brown. Dark green leaves feel leathery and have a glossy surface. Each oval leaf has a smooth edge and sunken veins. White hairs cover the underside. Leaves grow alternately along the stems and stay through winter.

Small white or cream flowers appear from late spring into summer. They form clusters along the branches and draw bees. Each flower has four or five petals. Red fruits develop in late summer and autumn. These small pomes hang in bunches and last into winter. Birds and small mammals eat them. The lasting fruit and evergreen leaves give gardens winter interest. The fruit is for display, not for people or pets. PFAF lists no known edible or medicinal uses. The RHS warns that the fruit may cause harm.

Grow this plant in sun or partial shade. It accepts sand, loam, clay, and chalk if water drains well. It also grows in acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. The RHS recommends soil with moderate fertility. Established plants tolerate drought, salt spray, and air pollution. NC State reports wind tolerance, while the RHS recommends a sheltered site. Its listed hardiness covers USDA zones 6–9 and UK rating H5. It suits borders, screens, informal hedges, and coastal or wildlife gardens. It tolerates trimming, though leaving branches uncut preserves their arching shape. The fruit can also yield a rose-tan dye.

Care needs are low, but pests and diseases can occur. The RHS lists brown scale, aphids, and cotoneaster webber caterpillars. Woolly aphids may also attack it. Fireblight and honey fungus are possible diseases. NC State lists resistance to deer. Grow new plants from ripe seed in autumn. Late-summer semi-ripe cuttings offer another way to raise plants.