Introducing...
Wall shrub cotoneasters
While no cotoneaster is a true climber, several can be persuaded to cover walls and fences provided the stems are pinned into position as they grow. Cotoneaster horizontalis is most widely used for this purpose.
Looks
Arching stems create a ‘herringbone’ pattern on walls and fences, most noticeable in winter after the leaves have fallen. Creamy-white spring flowers are succeeded by red berries.
Likes
Preferring sun or light shade, these cotoneasters will grow in any soil type and are tolerant of dry soil at the foot of a wall.
Dislikes
Very wet soil is unsuitable. Plants will not flower or berry freely in deep shade.
Did you know?
The simplest way to train a cotoneaster is to hammer in rust-proof nails where needed to support stems, then use extension growth to develop the coverage upwards.
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