Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Cotoneaster dammeri
Bearberry Cotoneaster
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Height
- 6 to 12 in
- Width
- 24 to 36 in
- Flower color
- Small white to creamy white flowers
- Foliage color
- Glossy dark green leaves that may take on bronze or reddish tones in winter
- Bloom time
- Late spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate moisture
- Maintenance
- Low; light pruning to shape or control spread after flowering
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 7
- Wildlife
- Bees and other pollinators in spring; birds eat the red berries in fall and winter
About this plant
Cotoneaster dammeri is a low-growing evergreen shrub with trailing stems that root as they spread, forming a dense mat of glossy, dark green leaves. In late spring, small white flowers appear along the stems, each with soft pink tinges and prominent stamens that add fine detail to the foliage.
Blooming in late spring, this species originates from mountainous regions of China. It is widely used as a groundcover on slopes, banks, and retaining walls, where its spreading habit helps knit plantings together. Bright red berries develop after flowering and often persist into winter, providing long-lasting seasonal color and visual interest.
Works well in
Pollinator Gardens · Rock Gardens · Borders · Deer-Prone Areas
Companion plants
Junipers · Dwarf conifers · Sedums · Blue fescues · Lavender · Rockroses
Design tip
Plant this spreading shrub where it can flow naturally over retaining walls, berms, or raised planting beds. The cascading branches soften hard edges while visually connecting changes in elevation, giving the landscape a more natural and established appearance.
