Cotoneaster Franchetti (Grey Cotoneaster)

An upright, semi-evergreen or arched tree to 3metres in height. It has alternately placed oval leaves, sage green above with white downy undersides and young branches. Pink tinted white flowers are followed by red berries.

Grow in full sun to partial shade in any aspect, either exposed or sheltered on moist but well drained soil. 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.