Water
Water regularly during the growing season, especially when young and in dry spells. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering in winter, particularly for container plants, to prevent waterlogged roots.
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 a dense, thorny evergreen shrub prized for its abundant clusters of white flowers in spring and vibrant red-orange berries in fall and
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and fruiting, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Water regularly during the growing season, less in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 6-9. Tolerates heat well. Protect from extreme cold in colder regions.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize once in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Parts of the plant are toxic.
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 and in dry spells. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering in winter, particularly for container plants, to prevent waterlogged roots.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any crossing or damaged branches. For hedges, prune annually in late spring. To encourage berry production, prune lightly in late winter, as berries form on older wood.
Easily propagated from semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer. Root cuttings in a sandy, well-draining medium. Alternatively, sow seeds in autumn or spring, though plants grown from seed may not come true to type.
Repot container-grown Pyracantha every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth begins. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excess moisture retention.
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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
