Scientific name: Pyracantha coccinea
Family: ROSACEAE
Common names: “Firethorn” “Egyptian thorn” “everlasting thorn” “fire bush”
Plant Type: Semi-evergreen shrub
Conditions:
Zone: 6-9
Light: Full sun best for berries
Exposure: Exposed or sheltered
Soil: Not fussy, will tolerate clay
Moisture: Moist well drained
Aesthetic:
Plant Size: 6-12′ H & W
Leaf and Stem shape: Narrow glossy leaves
Flower: Small white flowers followed by showy red – orange berries
Pruning: Carefully as thorns can carry Sporothrix schenckii, requires constant trimming
Maintenance: High, trim back 4-6 times a year
Landscape use: Hedging, espalier, bonsai
Propagate: By cuttings
Pests & Disease:Susceptible to fireblight, scale insects, aphids, also the thorns can carry Sporothrix schenckii – which can cause a skin infection from scratches and pricks
Comments: Very thorny high maintenance shrub but the long lasting berries make it worthwhile
