Texas Tech University

Firethorn

Pyracantha coccinea
Evergreen-Shrubs

(Detailed plant information can be found at the bottom of the page.)
Pyracantha coccinea

Pyracantha coccinea Photo Gallery



Pyracantha coccinea Plant Information

Classification  
   
Scientific Name: Pyracantha coccinea
Common Name: scarlet firethorn
Family: Rosaceae
Suggested Uses: barrier plant, informal or formal hedge, topiary, espalier
   
Characteristics  
   
Plant Form: medium to large shrub
Height: 6 - 18 feet tall
Spread: 4 - 8 feet wide
Foliage: alternate, simple, evergreen

1 to 1.5 inches long
Flower: white flowers
Bloom Period: Spring
Fruit: orange to red berry-like pome in Fall; persists through Winter
   
Environment  
   
Sun: full sun
Soil: very pH adaptable
USDA Zone: zones 6 - 9
   
Care  
   
Maintenance: thorns common in leaf axils

prune to keep from getting ragged and out-of-control-looking

good plant for espalier or topiary

TTU Plant Resources