Pyracantha
Pyracantha, commonly known as Gnome firethorn, is a large, broadleaf evergreen shrub. During the summer, its narrow, deep green leaves provide a lush appearance, while in winter, they take on a burgundy hue.
In late spring, domed clusters of single, white flowers bloom on the previous year’s wood. These flowers transform into tight clusters of pea-sized orange berries by late summer, which persist well into winter.
The name “firethorn” comes from the numerous fierce thorns found on its rigid branches and at the ends of the leaf clusters. Firethorn thrives in full sun but can also tolerate some shade.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Pyracantha
Pyracantha, commonly known as Gnome firethorn, is a large, broadleaf evergreen shrub. During the summer, its narrow, deep green leaves provide a lush appearance, while in winter, they take on a burgundy hue.
In late spring, domed clusters of single, white flowers bloom on the previous year’s wood. These flowers transform into tight clusters of pea-sized orange berries by late summer, which persist well into winter.
The name “firethorn” comes from the numerous fierce thorns found on its rigid branches and at the ends of the leaf clusters. Firethorn thrives in full sun but can also tolerate some shade.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Pyracantha coccinea 'Gnome'
Pronunciation
py-ra-KAN-tha an-gus-tee-FOH-lee-uh
Mature Height
4 to 8 ft.
Mature Spread
4 to 8 ft.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
white
Bloom time
May to June
Colorado Native
No
Natural Habitat
Europe
Light Requirements
sun, part shade
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 5-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 6,000 ft.
Performance
At the Water Wise Demonstration Garden, firethorn has been growing for many years. It is a formidable, tangled shrub with stiff, thorny branches. In summer, it serves as a deep green background for foreground plants. In fall it is bright with orange berries. In winter it provides nice color in the garden, with its semi-evergreen leaves and orange fruits.
Maintenance
Consistent pruning each year will simplify the task of maintaining this extremely dense thorny plant.