Cotoneaster salicifolia 'Scarlet Leader'

Willowleaf Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster salicifolia ‘Scarlet Leader’ (Willowleaf Cotoneaster)

Cotoneaster salicifolia ‘Scarlet Leader’ is a vigorous, semi-evergreen to evergreen spreading shrub prized for its narrow willow-like foliage and brilliant red berries that create strong fall and winter interest.


🌿 Plant Profile
Type: Semi-evergreen to evergreen shrub

Mature Size:
Height: 2–4 ft
Width: 6–8 ft

Foliage:
Long, narrow, dark green leaves with a slightly glossy surface
Holds foliage well in mild winters

Blooms:
Small white flowers in late spring

Fruit:
Abundant bright scarlet-red berries in fall
Often persist into winter

Fall/Winter Interest:
Evergreen foliage with heavy red berry display

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best berry production in full sun)
Soil: Well-drained; adaptable
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established


🌸 Features & Landscape Uses
Form: Low, spreading, arching habit
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

Uses:
Groundcover, slopes, erosion control, mass plantings, cascading over walls, foundation plantings


🌼 Attracts & Tolerances
Attracts: Birds, pollinators
Tolerances: Drought, urban conditions, poor soils

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Semi Evergreen

Height

2-4'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Alkaline, Clay, Loamy, Sandy, Well Drained

Shape

Spreading

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No