Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Pyracantha coccinea or Scarlet firethorn

The genus Pyracantha, family Rosaceae, includes 7 species of shrubs native to Asia and southern Europe. Some species are: Pyracantha coccinea, Pyracantha angustifolia, Pyracantha crenulata.

Common names: Scarlet firethorn, Red firethorn.

They are highly branched evergreen shrubs with thorns that reach little more than 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The leaves are leathery, alternate, bright green and oval or oblong in shape. The abundant small white or cream flowers appear in corymbs. They bloom in spring. The decorative fruits are red or orange.

Scarlet firethorn is used to form hedges and screens, in bushy groups and as isolated specimens. It's ideal for cities due to its resistance to pollution.

Pyracantha coccinea needs full sun or light shade exposure. It resists well the frosts and the intense heat of the Mediterranean summer.

Red firethorn grows in any type of soil but prefers that they be lightly clayey and contain abundant humus.

Water abundantly in summer and reduce watering the rest of the year. Pyracantha coccinea does not resist drought.

Compost before planting and every year in autumn.

Scarlet firethorn can be pruned in late winter to control its growth and keep it compact especially if it's grown as hedges.

Pyracantha coccinea is a shrub very resistant to the usual pests and diseases.

Red firethorn is propagated from seed sown in the nursery in spring and by cuttings in late summer (use rooting hormones).

Images of the shrub Pyracantha coccinea or Scarlet firethorn