Cotoneaster adpressus 'Little Gem'

Creeping Cotoneaster

Botanical name: Cotoneaster adpressus ‘Little Gem’

Overview
A low-growing, spreading cotoneaster valued for its dense, ground-hugging habit and bright seasonal color. Small glossy green leaves form a tight mat through the growing season, turning red to burgundy in fall. Tiny pinkish-white spring flowers are followed by bright red berries that persist into winter, adding ornamental and wildlife interest. ‘Little Gem’ is prized for erosion control and tidy groundcover use.

Size



Width: 4–6 ft



Height: 1–2 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 4a–7b



Light



Full sun to partial shade



Best berry production and fall color in full sun



Soil



Well-drained soils; adaptable to sandy, loamy, or rocky soils



Tolerates slightly alkaline to neutral pH



Avoid poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (flowers)



Birds (berries)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in cool to moderate climates



Tolerates drought once established



Ideal for slopes, rock gardens, and mass plantings



Notes



Shape: Low, spreading groundcover with layered branching



Excellent for erosion control and cascading over walls



Berries provide strong winter interest



Minimal pruning required; trim lightly to maintain shape



Deer generally avoid

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub

Height

1-2'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

4–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Misty Rose

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Alkaline, Loamy, Moist well-drained

Shape

Spreading

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No