Black-Wood, Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster racemiflorus

Physical Characteristics

Cotoneaster racemiflorus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.4 m (7ft 10in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, midges. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

N. Africa to W. and C. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Manna Edible Uses: Yields a manna-like substance called shir-khist, it is rich in sugars[46, 61, 183]. It contains about 13% sacchrose, 37.5% dextrose[105, 183]. No details of which part of the plant yields the manna, it is most likely to be the stem.

Medicinal Uses

Aperient Expectorant Stomachic The plant is aperient, expectorant and stomachic[240].

Known Hazards

None known