Cotoneaster for the Black Hills
Tough, Hardy Shrubs with Year-Round Resilience
Cotoneasters are robust, low-maintenance shrubs perfect for challenging Black Hills landscapes. They provide structure, texture, and interest throughout the year, from small flowers and abundant red berries to reliable foliage. These plants are exceptionally tough and handle South Dakota’s weather with ease.
Meet Our Hardy Cotoneaster Varieties
| Attribute | ‘Centennial’ Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster adpressus ‘Centennial’) | Peking Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster acutifolius) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Deciduous Groundcover Shrub | Deciduous Shrub |
| Mature Size (H x W) | 1–2 ft. x 4–6 ft. (Dwarf/Low-Growing) | 6–8 ft. x 5–7 ft. (Medium/Large Shrub) |
| Form | Spreading, dense, mounded groundcover | Upright, dense, often vase-shaped |
| Foliage | Small, dense green leaves; orange-red fall color | Glossy green leaves; excellent orange-red fall color |
| Flowers | Pinkish/white in spring | Pinkish in spring |
| Fruit (Berries) | Bright red, persistent through winter | Dark black/purple, persistent through winter |
| Hardiness (SD) | USDA Zones 3–7 | USDA Zones 3–7 |
| Key Use | Groundcover, slopes, rock gardens, erosion control | Hedges, screens, foundation plantings, naturalizing |
Why These Plants Thrive in the Black Hills:
Both cotoneasters are perfectly adapted to South Dakota. They are highly cold-hardy, tolerate a wide range of soils (including rocky or clay), and handle the dry conditions of our region once established.
Grower’s Tips & Features:
- Sun Needs: Both thrive in full sun for the best fall color and berry production. They tolerate part shade.
- Soil Needs: Very adaptable to most soil types, including poor soils, as long as they are well-drained.
- Wildlife: The berries provide a winter food source for birds.
- Maintenance: Low maintenance and naturally deer-resistant.
Which Cotoneaster is Right for Your Black Hills Garden?
- Choose ‘Centennial’ if: You need a dwarf, spreading groundcover for slopes, rock gardens, or along a border. It offers bright red berries and low height.
- Choose Peking if: You want a taller, upright shrub for a formal or informal hedge, screen, or foundation planting. It has glossy green leaves and dark purple berries.
Find the perfect cotoneaster to add tough resilience and structure to your Black Hills landscape today!