Cotoneaster adpressus 'Tom Thumb'

'Tom Thumb' Cotoneaster

Botanical name: Cotoneaster adpressus ‘Tom Thumb’

Overview
A compact, spreading cotoneaster prized for its tight, low-growing habit and vibrant fall color. Small glossy green leaves form a dense mat through the growing season, turning brilliant red to burgundy in fall. Tiny pinkish-white flowers appear in late spring, followed by bright red berries that persist into winter. ‘Tom Thumb’ is ideal for groundcover, edging, and erosion control.

Size



Width: 3–5 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



Excellent for slopes, rock gardens, borders, and mass plantings



Notes



Shape: Low, spreading groundcover with dense branching



More compact than many other cotoneaster varieties



Excellent cascading over walls or covering banks



Minimal pruning required; trim lightly to maintain shape



Deer generally resistant

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub

Height

1-2'

Width

3-5'

Hardiness zones

4–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Soil

Alkaline, Clay, Loamy, Moist well-drained, Sandy

Shape

Spreading

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes