Cotoneaster lacteus

Parney cotoneaster

milk flower cotoneaster

arching cotoneaster

  • © Patrick Breen - Oregon State University

  • © Patrick Breen - Oregon State University

  • © Patrick Breen - Oregon State University

Outstanding Qualities

This larger cotoneaster grows upright and spreading with a relaxed form up to 10 feet tall and wide. The evergreen foliage is dark green above and silvery underneath. A profusion of white flower clusters in early summer give way to bright red berries in autumn; the former much loved by bees and butterflies while the latter are a favorite of birds in wintertime.

Quick Facts

Plant Type: shrub

Foliage Type: evergreen

Plant Height (10-year): 10 ft. 0 in. (3.05 meters)

Plant Width/Spread (10-year): 10 ft. 0 in. (3.05 meters)

Plant Height-Mature: 14 ft. 0 in. (4.27 meters)

Plant Width-Mature: 14 ft. 0 in. (4.27 meters)

Hardiness: USDA Zones 6 to 8

Flower Color: white

Sun/Light Exposure: full sun or light to open shade

Water Requirements: drought tolerant once established

Seasonal Interest: white flowers in early summer, red berries in fall, year-round evergreen foliage

Wildlife Associations: bees

Culture Notes

Plant in full sun for the best growth & flowering, although Cotoneaster lacteus will tolerate light to open shade. The soil should be well-draining and can average to rich. Drought tolerant, once established, but if planted with companions that require occasional to regular watering, it will grow just fine.

Geek Notes

Cotoneaster lacteus is native to the provinces of Guizhou, Sichuan, Xizang, and Yunnan in China and found on grassy slopes along rivers or in thickets at 6,000 to 9,000 feet (1800m to 2700m).