Firethorn
Pyracantha
Although its common name is the Fire Thorn, it is more commonly known as Pyracantha – ‘pie-ra-can-thur’. Extremely thorny and can penetrate even thick gloves, evergreen/semi-evergreen. They are related to Cotoneaster, sharing the same Generic Name – Roseaceae. A good show of scented white flowers in May/June can be expected, after which it can be trimmed. Because of the nature of the thorns, particularly on current seasons growth, which is usually quite vigorous, it is adviseable to keep them trimmed back often, and thus avoid handling the vicious thorns. Watch out for fingers and eyes. Different varieties yield berries in shades of yellow, red or orange.
