Corokia Cotoneaster (Korokia or Wire Netting Bush)

A quirky shrub from New Zealand with divaricate (wide angled) branches and tiny green leaves that could slowly grow to 3 x 2metres. It has a mass of starry yellow flowers followed by red or yellow berries.

In New Zealand it thrives in a wide range of conditions from sub-alpine to coastal cliffs. Not fussy about soil, plant it in full sun, a sheltered position in well drained soil. It can be clipped or simply pruned to shape. 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.