On the Pacific coast, where the number of firethorn (pyracantha) varieties is increasing, it is not easy for the newcomer to make his choice.
Pyracantha Graberi
In California, Pyracantha Graberi, with its vigorous growth and huge clusters of very large glossy, scarlet berries is one of the best. It is one of the hybrids of P. crenato-serrata (P. yunnanensis) from China.
The narrow, dark green leaves are shiny, the white spring bloom has the fragrance of hawthorn, and the berries are borne so abundantly that the yield supplies the picker yet leaves enough to decorate the bush.
Because the growth will cover a large surface and the flattish berries are nestled close to the leaves, this is one of the best varieties to use as an espalier.
Pyracantha Duvall
Red-berried P. Duvall stands near the head of the firethorn list, for this variety, like P. Graberi, is one of the most resistant to disease. It also will stand near-zero temperatures and its thorns discourage birds.
As a specimen garden shrub it reaches a height of 8 feet but at Christmas small berry-laden plants are offered for the house. As an espalier, it needs less space than Grabcr’s pyracantha.
Pyracantha Rogersiana
In the Northwest, firethorns are usually placed against a wall that faces south, where they can be protected from the cold and the north and northeast winds.
Because of its wealth of foamy blooms, P. Rogersiana is particularly valued as a garden specimen to be displayed against a wall.
Its leaves are small and spatula-shaped and its berries are round and orange-red. It is possible to get this variety with yellow berries.
Pyracantha Angustifolia
If P. angustifolia were less susceptible to fire blight, the bane of the pyracantha grower, it would be a safer choice.
However, despite this disadvantage, it is widely grown. It has close clusters of large yellow-orange berries and handsome long, strap-shaped leaves.
Pyracantha Latandi
P. Latandi, a variety of P. coccinea, may not be as striking as some firethorns, but it will take zero weather and is a vigorous grower.
Care of Pyracantha
Give pyracanthas sun and light, well-drained soil. When grown in the open garden, the yield of flowers and fruit will be greater if the plant is somewhat restrained.
Deep basal priming will not decrease the yield of berries since they are borne on one-year-old branches.
This deep pruning can be conveniently done when cutting off the berries for decoration. Keep in mind the shape of the bush you wish to maintain. But have no fear of taking long branches.
The removal of long branches from the center will permit good air circulation. New shoots will spring from a stub only 6” or 8” inches long.
44659 by Lester Rowntree