Pyracantha

Firethorn is an appropriate name for the pyracantha…

Pyracantha produces good fall color because its clusters of berries turn red at that time. The berries will last until spring.

Pyracantha, commonly called firethorn, is a shrub that is often misplaced in the landscape. This rapid growing, broadleaf evergreen is not recommended for planting around the foundation of a single story building. It grows too large too fast.

An excellent hedge plant…

Pyracantha makes an excellent hedge. It can be espaliered against a wall, but you should realize how much maintenance is required to prune a pyracantha. Also, if pyracantha is planted under an overhang or eaves, where direct rainfall cannot hit the branches, pests such as spider mites are likely to be a problem.

Grows quite large…

Pyracantha can grow to a height of 8 to 15 feet, and it can spread to be that wide. Pyracantha grows upright, in fact, old plants become almost tree-like. Pyracantha produces good fall color because its clusters of berries turn red at that time. The berries will last until spring. Pyracantha should be planted in a sunny place.

Thorny shoots…

Pyracantha has one distinct characteristic. Instead of young stems terminating in a bud or additional shoot, they seem to die and develop into a spine-like point. These points can be quite painful if you get stuck by them.

Flowers and berries of pyracantha are produced only on growth that is at least one year old. Some of the older growth must be left on the plant when it is pruned, if you expect to have any flowers and berries.

Pruning time…

Pruning can be done at almost any season, but winter or early spring pruning is recommended. If you wait until early spring when flowering occurs, you can selectively prune to leave flower clusters so you will have berries in the fall. Some pruning may be necessary during spring and summer to remove excessive growth.

Always leave some of the growth made each year so you'll have flowers and berries.

For more information on pyracantha, contact your local County Extension Office.