Pyracantha coccinea 'RED COLUMN' scarlet firethorn
Pyracantha
Scarlet firethorn has long been a favourite plant due to its low-maintenance and adaptability. They are evergreen, small-leaved, and mostly thorny shrubs producing long twigs which in no time can create both a desired barrier either against animals, or an attractive hedge if sheared properly. New varieties are bred for improved resistance to common diseases, especially fungi diseases deteriorating the coloured fruit.Red Column is a fast growing and vigorous variety of scarlet firethorn. From late summer it produces abundance of vibrant red, scab-resistant berries which are not edible nor poisonous and are eaten by the birds in winter. Its long, upright canes make it ideal for creating a hedge or a screen. Evergreen leaves are narrowly ovate, deep green, glossy, and not leathery as opposed to most evergreen shrubs. Branches have thorns serving a great barrier against animals.
You can grow firethorn as an upright shrub, trim it into a hedge, or shape it. It is not a climber so needs no support, nevertheless we suggest staking young plants to train a terminal leader. It flowers in June and produces berries on 2-years-old wood (previous year’s) so trimming should be done in early to mid-summer to avoid cutting all flowering branches.
It can take almost any soil type but will thrive in fertile, well-drained soil. Firethorn withstands pollution and is therefore often planted at motorways, in city landscapes, and near industrial estates. It can grow in full sun as well as in shade. Fully hardy to min. -27 °C (USDA zone 5b).
Last update 15-02-2022
