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Scarlet Firethorn

Pyracantha coccinea

Other Common Names

Pyracantha

Plant Category

Shrub

Invasive Description

Scarlet Firethorn is native to southern Europe and western Asia. It is a large, evergreen shrub that is cherished for its spectacular fall and winter display of scarlet fruits and ability to withstand dry and droughty conditions. Shooting long lanky stems in all directions, Scarlet Firethorn typically grows into a tangled mound up to 10 ft in height and 12 ft wide. It is armed with sharp thorns that hide among the dark, glossy green leaves. Clusters (corymbs) of small white flowers appear in spring.

Ecological Threat

Scarlet Firethorn outcompetes native species in forested areas. Can also impact animals within the ecosystem that are not able to forage from the plant. Birds readily eat berries and disperse seeds. Deer are thought to avoid this shrub because of the plant’s sharp spines.
It is readily available in nurseries and online.

How to Eradicate

For information on how to eradicate this invasive, view our statement on herbicide use and preferred alternatives for invasive plants.

Native Alternatives

You can replace this invasive plant with native alternatives. Here are some plants that make superior replacements.

Match your location on the Texas map to the color squares on the replacement plants below to find suitable replacements for your ecoregion.

Click for more details about the ecoregions
Additional Replacement Options: Lycium berlandieri