Pyracantha - Firethorn
Shrub

Evergreen Pyracantha is a shrub available in many varieties, firethorns have large clusters of white flowers in spring followed by autumn berries in various shades from deep red through brighter reds and orange to yellow. The berries are borne in large quantities in autumn.

Can be grown as a specimen plant, as part of a mixed border, or more commonly as a wall shrub or informal hedging plant. All varieties have large strong thorns which make them excellent security barriers. They are good for wildlife, blackbirds have nested in mine for several years secure in the knowledge that no sane cat would dare try and climb towards them, and also for the berries, blackbirds again love them.

For a particularly informal hedge, different varieties can be mixed, and they can also be mixed with barberry, Berberis, or roses without sacrificing the deterrent barrier effect.

Height and spread: Depends on variety from 3m x 3m (10ft x 10ft) to 6m x 6m (20ft x 20ft)

Position: full sun or partial shade, don't like frosty places in conjunction with cold drying winds

Soil: generally unfussy

Rate of growth: medium

Other Features: easily trainable, against a wall or fence, simply trim back any shoots that are sticking out too far.

Hardiness: fully hardy, not suitable for very exposed positions