Cotoneaster dammeri Royal Carpet

Cotoneaster dammeri ‘Royal Carpet’ is a variety of Cotoneaster with a larger growth than the typical species, reaching up to 1m (3 ft 4 in) in height and 3m (9 ft 10 in) in spread. This low-growing bush is an excellent ground cover, evergreen and robust. Ideal for covering large areas with its dense foliage, limiting the growth of weeds on slopes, wall edges, or at the base of larger shrubs in flower beds or rock gardens. In June, it is covered in small white flowers with pink markings that develop into round, red berries. Easy to grow, this bush thrives even in shade and in poor soils, dry during summer.

Cotoneaster dammeri belongs to the large Rosaceae family and is native to central and western China. This very vigorous bush can withstand pronounced droughts as well as harsh winters, even when growing in poor, rocky soils. The cultivar ‘Royal Carpet’ has a low and spreading habit, supported by long, curved, and flexible reddish-brown branches. Its growth is quite fast, reaching a maturity of about 1m (3 ft 4 in) in height and 3m (9 ft 10 in) in spread, and even more as its branches naturally layer. Its evergreen foliage is composed of small, thick, and leathery leaves. They are very dark green, and glossy. The flowering occurs in June, with very small flowers with 5 white petals and pink markings. This nectar-rich flowering gives way to fleshy, bright red fruits measuring 5 to 7mm (0.2 to 0.3 in) in diameter, appreciated by birds.

Cotoneaster dammeri ‘Royal Carpet’ is ideal for covering large areas in difficult areas of the garden, bringing a very neat touch. While it can grow in almost any conditions, it will be more fruitful in the sun and will grow faster in fertile and moist soil. Perfect at the base of a large hedge or in a shady and bare corner of the garden, for example under a large tree, it can also be planted in a rock garden to fill the spaces between other plants. Plant it on a large slope, above a wall or retaining wall, at the edge of a terrace or pathway. It can be associated with Blue Star creeping juniper, Emerald Gaiety Euonymus fortunei, and Maree d'or Forsythia intermedia to add some colour.