Cotoneaster salicifolius
Cotoneaster salicifolius, the willow-leaved cotoneaster, is a drought-tolerant, evergreen to semi-evergreen, low-lying, small to medium-sized shrub with an arched branching habit. Specimens growing in the wild, however, are generally larger, averaging five meters in height. Although native to the mountains, mixed forests, and open places in western China, it is commonly cultivated in temperate climates worldwide. Cultivars have been bred in a variety of forms, as ornamental groundcovers or shrubs. Description. The bark of the willow-leaved cotoneaster is gray-brown, its stems are thin, and its root system is sparse. The leaves  are alternate, simple, long, lanceolate, dark green and resemble those of willow trees (thus the common name), and have fine gray hairs on their undersides. The scientific name 'salicifolius', described by the botanist Franchet, means 'with leaves like willows' (see: Genus "Salix"). During the colder months, they turn maroonish in color. In June it bears many flowered, compound corymbs of white, 5–6 mm flowers. The fruit grow as small, showy, apple-like, red pomes, ripening in September to October, and enduring into the winter. The diploid chromosomal number is 34 (2n=34). Cultivation. Depending on the characteristics of the cultivar, the  Willow-leaved Cotoneaster can be used as a hedge or screen; a bank cover; in small groupings or large masses; or anywhere its colorful fall foliage or bright red fruit would direct the eye towards a focal point, or serve as a centerpiece in a garden setting. Pests. "Cotoneaster salicifolius" is susceptible to bouts with leaf spot, scale insects and spider mites. It is also considered highly susceptible to the Enterobacteria fire blight and has been used as a test species to trial new methods of control. In parts of Europe where fire blight was previously unknown, cultivated specimens of  this species are among the first plants identified as infected. List of cultivars. This plant has many cultivars, ranging from tiny groundcovers to large shrubs, which include:- Additional list sources : The cultivars 'Gnom', 'Pink Champagne', and 'Rothschildianus' have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.