Also known as Buisson Ardent · Eldtorn (se) · Espinheiro-Ardente (pt)
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea) is an evergreen shrub prized for its glossy foliage, thorny branches, and abundant clusters of red berries, offering year-round appeal.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and fruiting.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 5-9, tolerates a range of temperatures but thrives in moderate climates.
Low
25% intensity
Annual spring feeding is usually sufficient; avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
Contains cyanogenic glycosides in seeds and fruit. Leaves and stems may cause mild irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, especially when young or in dry periods. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Overwatering can be detrimental to its health.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to shape the plant and remove dead or crossing branches. Summer pruning can be done after flowering to control size and encourage bushiness.
Heavy pruning can reduce fruiting.
Easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining medium.
Can also be propagated by layering or from seed, though seed-grown plants may take longer to establish and fruit.
Young plants may need repotting every 1-2 years. Mature plants in the ground rarely need repotting. If container-grown, repot in spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Ensure roots are not pot-bound.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea)
Where Firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Pyracantha |
| Species | Pyracantha coccinea |
Similar in genus Pyracantha
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
