Scarlet Firethorn

(Pyracantha coccinea)

Scarlet Firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pyracantha coccinea, commonly known as Scarlet Firethorn, is an evergreen shrub native to scrubby and rocky areas of the Mediterranean region, Southeastern Europe, and Western Asia. It is a dense, spiny plant that can reach 6 to 16 feet (2 to 5 meters) in height and spread. Scarlet Firethorn is characterized by its glossy green, slightly toothed leaves, small white flowers in spring, and showy clusters of bright red to orange berries that persist into winter, providing visual interest and food for birds.

The plant is valued for its year-round ornamental appeal, including its vibrant berries and its ability to form dense hedges or screens. It is also used to cover unsightly walls and fences, and the berries can be cooked to make jellies, jams, sauces, and marmalade. Scarlet Firethorn thrives in full sun to part shade and is adaptable to various soil types with different drainage capabilities, though it prefers well-drained soil. It requires moderate watering once established and can tolerate drought. While it is resistant to many pests and diseases, it can be susceptible to fire blight and scab. In some regions, such as California, it is considered potentially invasive, so gardeners should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 6-12 feet
  • Width: 6-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Scrubby and rocky areas of the Mediterranean region, Southeastern Europe, and Western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Buisson Ardent , Firethorn , Pyracanth , Scharlachroter Feuerdorn , Espino De Fuego , Piracanta , Buisson Ardent Écarlate , Petit Corail , Espinheiro-Ardente , Sarça-Ardente

Scientific Names: Pyracantha coccinea , Pyracantha pauciflora , Crataegus pyracantha , Cotoneaster pyracantha , Mespilus pyracantha , Pyracantha pyracantha , Crataegus hyracantha , Crataegus pauciflora , Pyracantha coccinea var. pauciflora , Mespilus pauciflora

GBIF Accepted Name: Pyracantha coccinea M.Roem.