How to Grow Cotoneaster Lacteus - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Cotoneaster lacteus is a plant that is native to china and tibet. it is a member of the rose family and is related to the apple, pear, quince, and photinia. the plant is a shrub that can grow to be 6-10 feet tall. the leaves are oblong and the flowers are white. the fruit is a red berry.

How to Grow Cotoneaster Lacteus - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Cotoneaster pannosus
  • Cotoneaster bullatus
  • Cotoneaster lateralis
  • Cotoneaster salicifolius
  • Cotoneaster angustifolius

Basic info

  • Cotoneaster lacteus is a species of cotoneaster.
  • It is native to China.
  • It is a small shrub or tree growing to 3-5 m tall.
  • The leaves are ovate, 2-3 cm long and 1-2 cm broad.
  • The flowers are white, 5-7 mm diameter, with five petals.
  • The fruit is a red pome, 5-8 mm diameter.
  • It is cultivated as an ornamental plant in Europe, North America and elsewhere.
  • Several hybrids and cultivars have been developed, including 'Coral Beauty', with deep pink flowers, and 'Dart's Red', with dark red fruits.
  • It is used as a bonsai subject.
  • It is sometimes confused with the closely related Cotoneaster simonsii, which has larger leaves, flowers and fruits.

Related plant:
Cotoneaster Salicifolius

Planting Process

  1. For cotoneaster lacteus, first step is to purchase your desired species or cultivar from a nursery or online retailer.
  2. Choose a planting location that has well-draining soil and receives full sun to partial shade.
  3. Prepare the planting area by removing any existing vegetation and loosening the soil.
  4. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the cotoneaster lacteus root ball.
  5. Place the cotoneaster lacteus in the hole and backfill with soil.
  6. Water the area thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
  7. Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  8. Fertilize the cotoneaster lacteus in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  9. Prune annually to shape as desired and to encourage new growth.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful cotoneaster lacteus plant!

Related plant:
Corokia Cotoneaster

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, cotoneaster lacteus prefers well-drained soils, but it is adaptable to a wide range of soils as long as the drainage is good. It is tolerant of both dry and wet soils, but not compacted or waterlogged soils. It also tolerates a wide range of pH levels, from 4.5 to 8.0.

Light requirement

So, like the other cotoneaster species, the cotoneaster lacteus requires a lot of sun to thrive. It is a fast-growing shrub that can quickly become overgrown if not properly pruned. It is best to plant this shrub in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the cotoneaster lacteus is one that is cool and moist. This plant does not like it when the temperature gets too hot or too cold. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant are moderate. However, it can tolerate a wide range of humidity conditions. It is important to not let the plant dry out or become too wet. If the plant becomes too dry, the leaves will start to drop off. If the plant becomes too wet, the roots will rot.

Fertilizer Requirement

The fertilizer, this kind of plant needs, is a rich compost or manure mixed in with the garden soil at the time of planting. A top dressing of the same material should be applied in early spring. Keep the root zone cool and moist by applying a thick layer of mulch in summer.

Plant Pruning

Pruning cotoneaster lacteus is best done in late winter or early spring. This plant responds well to hard pruning, so don't be afraid to cut it back quite a bit. Doing so will encourage new growth, which is what you want. Just make sure to not prune too late in the season or you risk stunting the new growth.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of Cotoneaster lacteus can be achieved through softwood cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches in length and should be taken from the tips of the branches. The cuttings should be placed in a well-drained potting mix and kept moist until roots have developed. Once roots have developed, the plants can be transplanted into their permanent location.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the species. However, growth rates can be significantly influenced by environmental conditions, such as light, temperature, and water availability. The ideal growing conditions for cotoneaster lacteus are full sun, well-drained soil, and Moist conditions. However, cotoneaster lacteus can tolerate a range of growing conditions and is adaptable to most soil types.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, leaf spot, and Aphids. Aphids are small insects that can be found on the undersides of the leaves. They suck the sap out of the plant and can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually drop off. Powdery mildew is a white powdery substance that can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. Leaf spot is a brown or black spot that can be found on the leaves.

Basics of Growing

  • Remember to water regularly, as the plant can't tolerate drought conditions.
  • Place the plant in an area with full sun for best results.
  • Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer to help encourage growth.
  • Prune regularly to keep the plant in shape and encourage new growth.
  • Watch for signs of pests or disease and take action as needed.
  • Overwinter the plant indoors in a cool, dry location if necessary.
  • Take care when handling the plant, as its sap can cause skin irritation.
  • Keep an eye on the plant's size and shape, as it can easily become overgrown.
  • Don't hesitate to ask for help from a professional if needed.
  • Enjoy the beautiful berries the plant produces in the fall!

Similar Plants

  • Cotoneaster lucidus
  • Cotoneaster ledifolius
  • Cotoneaster lacteus var. obovatus
  • Cotoneaster lacteus var. lacteus
  • Cotoneaster lacteus var. glaucescens
  • Cotoneaster lacteus var. albobaccatus
  • Cotoneaster lacteus subsp. latifolius
  • Cotoneaster lacteus subsp. harmandii
  • Cotoneaster lacteus subsp. glaucescens
  • Cotoneaster lacteus subsp. albobaccatus

Source:
Cotoneaster lacteus, red clusterberry | Trees of Stanford & Environs
Cotoneaster lacteus (Rosaceae) - HEAR species info
Cotoneaster lacteus information from the Global Compendium of …

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