Cotoneaster acutifolius Seeds | Peking Cotoneaster
LATIN NAME: Cotoneaster acutifolius
COMMON NAME: Peking Cotoneaster, Acute-leaf Cotoneaster
Plant Profile
Cotoneaster acutifolius, commonly known as Peking Cotoneaster, is an upright, deciduous shrub in the rose family, native to southern siberia, mongolia and most of China. The Peking cotoneaster is a tough and graceful shrub of cold north, and its berries are a winter feast for the birds. Given room and time, it reaches roughly Two to four metres. Taken as a whole, it is a plant that repays a little attention many times over.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the rose family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. The genus Cotoneaster is also of interest in botany for its many species and their relationships. Contemporary seed practice means a grower can raise it confidently with standard techniques.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, Peking Cotoneaster earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. Ecologically, the Peking cotoneaster is a generous shrub of cold garden. Its flowers feed bees and other insects in early summer, and its black berries feed birds through winter, when food is scarce, while its dense, arching growth gives shelter and nesting sites. Its economic value lies mainly in horticulture. Once settled, it thrives on neglect more than on fussing.
Cotoneasters are workhorse ornamentals and bird-feeders; their bright berries feed winter wildlife, and the genus is grown for structure, not for medicine.
Growing from Seed
Peking Cotoneaster is one of those generous plants that come along well from seed. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray bright light. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
Peking Cotoneaster repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
Related Reading
More species in the same orbit as Peking Cotoneaster: