Cotoneaster conspicuus 'Decorus'

From the Tsangpo river in Tibet, this is a hardy shrub with softly arching branches and small green leaves. The white flowers open in May and are followed by little red berries. Birds don’t seem to like them particularly so they last long into the winter. It can reach 1.5 x 2.5m but is often lower to the ground.

An easy shrub, happy in most soil but does like good drainage. Whilst tolerant of partial shade, a position in full sun will be best for berries. Fruit are ornamental – not to be eaten.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted