Shop With Confidence: FREE Growing & Glowing Guarantee

Free Shipping on Orders $199+

Peking Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster acutifolius

  • Reliable performance and extreme cold hardiness in USDA growing zones 4 through 7.
  • Matures to a substantial 6-10 feet tall and wide, making it an ideal choice for living privacy screens.
  • Offers four-season interest with spring blooms, black winter berries, and brilliant orange-red autumn foliage.
  • A "tough-as-nails" selection that thrives in urban environments and tolerates drought and poor soils once established.
$6793
Shipping calculated at checkout.
In Stock
Outside your zone (): not guaranteed Why

Rated for zones 4 to 7. Great in a pot brought indoors for winter, or as an annual.

Shop zone 

Houseplant: grows indoors in any zone
Will it grow in your garden?

Unfortunately, this item cannot be shipped to your state.

Shipping to your area may be delayed due to weather conditions.

Enter your ZIP code to check shipping availability.
Plant Size
Plant Sentry Protected

Plant Sentry™ Protected

Your order is protected by our compliance system that:

  • Prevents restricted plants from shipping to your state
  • Ensures plants meet your state's agricultural requirements
  • Protects gardens from invasive pests and diseases

Learn more about Plant Sentry™
Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Hedge/Screen, Fall Color/Interest, Ornamental Berries/Fruit, Slopes/Erosion Control, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Low Maintenance, Flowering, Attracts pollinators, Fast-growing, Fragrant, Self-pollinating
Hardiness Zone 4a7b
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Height 8-10 ft
Width 5-6 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Growth Rate Fast
Blooms In Spring
Flower Color Pink, White
Foliage Color Green, Red, Other
Suitable Space Outdoors
Botanical Name Cotoneaster acutifolius
Species acutifolius
Class Rosales
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR
This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.
J
Judy
Still Green after the Snow!

I live in the mountains in Idaho. The maps all say we are zone 5, but really we are zone 4 because of the elevation. This plant was under about 10" of snow for a very long winter. Not to mention its in a raised bed, so I thought that would make it more vulnerable, less protected. Although quite a few of my zone 4 plants survived and are starting to show signs of life, (April) this one is still green and looks like it barely noticed the winter at all. I will be adding a lot of these to the garden this year. My entire garden is inside a deer fence, so I cant speak the issue of deer bait. Judy

Dear Judy,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with us! It’s truly inspiring to hear how resilient your plant has been—even after enduring 10 inches of snow and a long winter in your high-elevation Zone 4 garden. Raised beds can sometimes expose plants to tougher conditions, so it’s fantastic that this one not only survived but remained vibrant and green. Your observation about your map’s zones reflects a great understanding of microclimates, which can definitely make a significant difference in plant survivability.

We love that you’re planning to add many more of these plants to your garden! Since your area is well-protected by a deer fence, you’re free to enjoy these beauties without typical browsing concerns, which is wonderful. If you ever want tips on amplifying plant success in challenging elevations or dealing with prevalent wildlife, feel free to reach out—we have a range of resources tailored for different USDA zones and conditions right here on NatureHills.com.

Thanks again, Judy. Your testimonial not only brightens our day but will helpful to other stunning high-altitude gardeners!

Growing with you,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

T
Trent
Beautiful Year Round

Amazing right out of the box, and has great fall color!

Hi Trent,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience! We’re thrilled to hear your new plant was amazing right out of the box and that you’re enjoying its beautiful fall color. Plants with year-round appeal truly add such charm to any space!

If you ever want tips on care or inspiration for adding complementary plants to your garden, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help your garden thrive through every season.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

T
Trent
Beautiful Year Round

Amazing right out of the box, and has great fall color!

Hi Trent,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear your new plant impressed you right out of the box and that you’re enjoying its vibrant fall color. It’s always our goal to provide beautiful, healthy plants that bring joy year-round. If you’d like tips on how to care for your plant through the seasons or ideas to complement it with other colorful varieties, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help you cultivate that beauty all year long!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

V
Virginia
the bush was good size

the bush was good size about 3.5 feet high with a good root system. 6 years ago, we purchase 17 bushesand they are growing nicely as an hedge at the back of our property. We have sandy soil and very little sunshine because are planted under and inbetween 50 foot evergreens (about 30 years old) Peking cotoneaster grows well in shady areas..that is why we purchased them.

Dear Virginia,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Peking cotoneaster bushes you purchased from us! We're delighted to hear that the bushes arrived healthy with a strong root system and have thrived into a lovely hedge over the past six years. Your success story, especially in those challenging sandy soil and low-light conditions under large evergreens, is truly inspiring.

It's great to know that the Peking cotoneaster continues to perform well in the shady areas you described—these resilient bushes are indeed perfect for such spots, offering both shade tolerance and beautiful growth. If you ever need tips on maintaining or pruning your hedge to keep it healthy and attractive, feel free to reach out. We also recommend mulching around the base to help retain moisture in your sandy soil and occasionally checking for any pests or diseases.

Thank you again for being a valued member of the Nature Hills family. We're here to support you with whatever you need to keep your garden thriving.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

V
Virginia
the bush was good size

the bush was good size about 3.5 feet high with a good root system. 6 years ago, we purchase 17 bushesand they are growing nicely as an hedge at the back of our property. We have sandy soil and very little sunshine because are planted under and inbetween 50 foot evergreens (about 30 years old) Peking cotoneaster grows well in shady areas..that is why we purchased them.

Dear Virginia,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Peking cotoneasters you purchased from us six years ago! We’re thrilled to hear that the bushes arrived at a good size with a strong root system and that they have flourished into a lovely hedge despite the challenging sandy soil and limited sunshine under those majestic evergreens. Your insight about the Peking cotoneaster’s tolerance for shade will surely help other gardeners facing similar conditions.

If you ever decide to expand your hedge or add new plants that can thrive in shady, sandy environments, please don’t hesitate to reach out—our team would be happy to suggest options tailored to your garden’s unique conditions.

Thanks again for your thoughtful review and for trusting Nature Hills as part of your gardening journey!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

J
Julie
Great Color

My grandparents had these in their yard when I was young. So glad to have found the Peking Cotoneaster to add to my landscape. The fall leaf color is beautiful.

Hi Julie,

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely memories and beautiful feedback about the Peking Cotoneaster! We’re delighted to hear this classic shrub holds a special place in your heart and that it’s flowering again in your landscape. The vibrant fall foliage truly makes this plant a standout.

If you’re looking for tips to keep your Peking Cotoneaster thriving, be sure to give it well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, which will encourage the best color throughout the seasons. Regular pruning after flowering can also help maintain its shape and health. If you ever have questions about care or want to explore complementary plants to enhance your yard, feel free to reach out or visit our helpful plant care guides on NatureHills.com.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

J
Julie
Great Color

My grandparents had these in their yard when I was young. So glad to have found the Peking Cotoneaster to add to my landscape. The fall leaf color is beautiful.

Hi Julie,

Thank you so much for sharing your delightful memories and experience with the Peking Cotoneaster! It’s wonderful to hear that this plant brings back fond moments of your grandparents’ yard while now enhancing your own landscape. You’re absolutely right—the vibrant fall colors of the Peking Cotoneaster add such a lovely and dynamic touch to any garden.

To help your plant thrive year after year, be sure it’s planted in a spot with full sun to part shade and that the soil is well-drained. Pruning is minimal, but a light trim in early spring can encourage a stronger shape and fuller growth. You might also enjoy our planting guide on Peking Cotoneaster on our website—it offers some great tips on care and maintenance.

Wishing you many beautiful seasons with your new Peking Cotoneaster!

Growing with you,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

D
Donald
Nice Shrub

I planted Peking Cotoneasters along the back of my yard for the birds. They are a nice looking shrub and the birds like them.

Hi Donald,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with the Peking Cotoneaster! We're thrilled to hear that not only do they add beauty to your yard, but that the birds are enjoying them as well. These hardy shrubs are indeed wonderful for creating a welcoming habitat for wildlife.

If you're interested, you might consider pairing them with other bird-friendly plants to further enhance your backyard ecosystem. Native berry-producing shrubs, like serviceberry or spicebush, can provide additional food sources and attract even more feathered friends.

Should you need tips on pruning or caring for your Peking Cotoneasters to keep them looking their best year-round, we’re always here to help.

Blossoming together,
Nature Hills – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

D
Donald
Nice Shrub

I planted Peking Cotoneasters along the back of my yard for the birds. They are a nice looking shrub and the birds like them.

Hello Donald,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Peking Cotoneasters! We’re delighted to hear that not only are you enjoying their beauty, but the birds are appreciating them too—that’s exactly the kind of vibrant garden neighborhood we love to see. These shrubs do make wonderful, low-maintenance additions that provide habitat and food for wildlife, which can really bring your yard to life.

If you’re ever looking to complement your Peking Cotoneasters with other bird-friendly plants, we’d be happy to help with suggestions that thrive in your region. Be sure to keep the shrubs well watered during dry spells, especially as they get established, to keep them healthy and attractive to your feathered friends.

Thanks again for choosing NatureHills.com for your gardening needs and for taking growing nature at home to heart.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

P
Pauly
Hedge plant

Peking cotoneasters are great for hedges and the fall foliage really makes them visible. Mine grew fast and I had a nice hedge in about 3 years.

Hi Pauly,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Peking Cotoneaster! We're thrilled to hear that it not only thrives as a hedge but also adds that beautiful pop of color in the fall. Growing a healthy hedge in about three years is impressive and a great testament to this plant’s vigor and your care. For even more vibrant foliage, making sure it gets plenty of sunlight and occasional pruning can really help maintain its shape and density. If you ever want tips on fertilizing or managing growth, feel free to reach out!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

P
Pauly
Hedge plant

Peking cotoneasters are great for hedges and the fall foliage really makes them visible. Mine grew fast and I had a nice hedge in about 3 years.

Hello Pauly,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with the Peking Cotoneaster! We’re thrilled to hear that your hedge grew quickly and that you’re enjoying those beautiful fall colors—it really does make a lovely statement in the garden. Fast growth and vibrant seasonal foliage are definitely among the qualities that make Peking Cotoneaster such a popular choice for hedges.

If you ever need tips on pruning or maintaining your hedge for year-round health and appearance, feel free to reach out. We also have some great resources on our site about seasonal care to help you keep your plants thriving for many more years to come.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Peking Cotoneaster survive in zone 4, especially at high elevations or in microclimates?
  • Peking Cotoneaster is exceptionally cold hardy and thrives in northern climates, making it well-suited for zone 4 conditions. Its reputation as a "true survivor" that withstands tough growing conditions extends to harsh winter climates and challenging microclimates. Plant in a protected spot during extreme cold snaps for best results.

How wide does Peking Cotoneaster get, and is it good for hedges or privacy screens?
  • Peking Cotoneaster typically reaches 4-6 feet wide with its dense, multi-stemmed growth habit. Its thick foliage creates an excellent "living wall" for privacy screening and boundary hedges. Plant them in a row for continuous coverage, available at naturehills.com.

What are the planting zone requirements and cold hardiness for Peking Cotoneaster in winter?
  • Peking Cotoneaster thrives in USDA zones 4-7 and handles harsh northern winters exceptionally well. This hardy shrub tolerates urban pollution, poor soils, and dry spells while maintaining its structural integrity through freezing temperatures. Plant in fall for best establishment before winter.

Does Peking Cotoneaster grow well in full sun, partial shade, or shade under trees?
  • Peking Cotoneaster thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. This tough shrub tolerates a wide range of light levels, though it produces the best flowering display and most vibrant fall color in full sun locations. Plant in areas with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal performance.

What soil type and drainage does Peking Cotoneaster need to avoid root rot?
  • Peking Cotoneaster thrives in well-draining soil and tolerates poor soil quality better than most shrubs. This hardy plant rarely suffers from root rot due to its excellent adaptability. Avoid constantly wet or waterlogged areas for best results.

How often should I water Peking Cotoneaster, especially after planting or in dry periods?
  • Water newly planted Peking Cotoneaster deeply twice weekly for the first month, then weekly until established. This drought-tolerant shrub handles occasional dry spells once mature. Check soil moisture 2 inches deep and water when dry.

What are the fertilizing requirements for Peking Cotoneaster, like type and timing?
  • Peking Cotoneaster thrives in poor soils and rarely needs fertilizing once established. If desired, apply a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins. Focus on mulching and proper watering instead of heavy feeding for best results.

What is the shipping process for Peking Cotoneaster, and does it arrive healthy "right out of the box"?
  • Peking Cotoneaster ships as a healthy, dormant plant that's ready to establish quickly in your garden. This rugged shrub handles shipping stress well due to its exceptional tolerance for tough conditions. Plant immediately upon arrival and water thoroughly to help it settle into its new location.
Back to top