Evergreen firethorn (Pyracantha atalantoides)
Care, watering, light and tips for Evergreen firethorn on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rosaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Evergreen firethorn
Pyracantha atalantoides, also known as Gigg's Firethorn, is a dense, thorny shrub prized for its abundant, bright red berries that persist through autumn and winter. Its small white flowers in spring and glossy dark green foliage make it attractive year-round. It is ideal for defensive hedges, visual screens, or as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, providing color and shelter for wildlife.
Native range
East Asia: China, Taiwan, and the Himalayas
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering and fruiting. Regular watering is required during dry periods, although it tolerates some drought once established. It adapts well to a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-drained, with slightly acidic to neutral soils being ideal. Avoid excessive pruning in spring if you want a good berry harvest, as it flowers on old wood.
How to save a dying Evergreen firethorn
- Warning signs
- Yellow or falling leaves, no flowers/fruits, dry tips, dead branches.
- First aid
- Check watering and drainage. Prune dry or diseased branches. Protect from intense sun if stressed.
- What kills it
- Extreme over/underwatering, poor or waterlogged soil, drastic pruning at wrong time.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon quickly. It's hardy, but needs basic care and good drainage.