Cotoneaster salicifolius aka Willow Leaved Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster salicifolius is known as willowleaf cotoneaster. This woody shrub belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. It comes from China, with records extending west and south-central. RHS also includes Tibet within its native range. It keeps its leaves year-round in mild conditions. In colder sites, it may lose some leaves. Its long branches arch outward and give an open shape.

Garden size varies widely among the sources. Oregon State gives a usual height of 6–8 feet [1.8–2.4 metres]. It also records plants reaching 15 feet [4.5 metres]. RHS describes a shrub reaching about 16 feet [5 metres]. Its listed mature height and spread reach 26 feet [8 metres]. The bark is brown to gray-brown, and stems are thin. Young stems can show both red and green. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. They are narrow, dark green, and shaped like willow leaves. Fine gray hairs cover their undersides. Leaves may turn yellow or red in fall. Cold weather can bring a purple tint.

Small white flowers form broad, flat clusters in late spring or summer. UConn records May bloom, while NC State gives June. Their scent can be unpleasant, and they draw bees. Bright red pomes follow the flowers in fall. These small, rounded fruits form clusters and last through winter. Oregon State records two or three nutlets within each fruit. Birds also visit the plant. The fruit and leaves give it value in winter gardens.

Grow it in sun or partial shade with good drainage. Sources support loose soil and a range of soil types. Oregon State favors moist soil, while NC State notes drought tolerance. RHS accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Shelter it from cold, dry winds in colder areas. NC State lists USDA zones 6–8; RHS rates it H6. It suits hedges, screens, banks, and groups of shrubs. Pruning is needed mainly to limit its size. RHS recommends late-summer cuttings for propagation.

Fire blight is a key disease risk. Leaf spot and honey fungus can also occur. Pests include scale, spider mites, aphids, and cotoneaster webber caterpillars. NC State labels the plant edible but gives no food-use details. RHS warns against people or pets eating the fruit. That conflict means the evidence does not establish safe edibility.