Family: Rosaceae
Common Name: Firethorn

These evergreen shrubs are originally from Asia and the Mediterranean, but are now grown in temperate climates everywhere, for the brilliant red or orange berries which follow the clusters of small, white flowers, covering the branches in spring. The berries can persist through winter. Firethorns make good hedges, screens and fill-in plants.

Species

P. angustifolia, from western China, grows to 3 m (10 ft) or more and has graceful, horizontal branches, narrow, green leaves, gray on the undersides, and large, shiny, orange berries.

P. coccinea, from southern Europe, is one of the most popular of the species. It is a very leafy, large shrub, which grows 2-5 m (6-16 ft) high, with arching branches and scar-let berries. Cultivar 'Lalandei' produces orange-red berries.

P. crenulata is a shrub or small tree, to 6 m (20 ft), with orange-red berries.

P. 'Watered' is a widely grown hybrid, to about 2.5 m (8 ft), with a dense habit, deep green foliage, and brilliant red fruits.

Cultivation

These hardy shrubs will grow well in most soil types, in sun or shade. They do, however, need an open, sunny position if they are to flower and fruit satisfactorily. They prefer regular watering through summer, but established shrubs tolerate dry periods well. Propagate species from seed sown in autumn, in a garden frame, or from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, in a heated propagating case.

Climate

Zone 7 for most species, zone 6 for P. coccinea.