Narrowleaf firethorn (Pyracantha angustifolia, Ill. Handb. Laubholzk. 1: 761 (1906))

Family: Rosaceae

Author: (Franch.) C.K.Schneid.

Bibliography: Ill. Handb. Laubholzk. 1: 761 (1906)

Year: 1906

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pyracantha

Vegetable: False

Observations: Tibet to S. China

Description

Narrowleaf firethorn, scientifically known as Pyracantha angustifolia, is an evergreen shrub distinguished by its dense, thorny branches and narrow leaves. It is a member of the Rosaceae family, which is notable for including many other ornamental and fruit-bearing plants such as roses, apples, and cherries. This particular species was documented in the early 20th century by C.K. Schneider, as noted in the “Illustriertes Handbuch der Laubholzkunde”.

Originating from Tibet and extending to southern China, this plant has adapted well to a variety of climates, making it a versatile choice for landscaping. The narrowleaf firethorn typically grows to a height of 3-4 meters, forming a robust and impenetrable thicket that makes it an excellent option for hedging or barrier planting.

The foliage of Pyracantha angustifolia is characterized by its lance-shaped, dark green leaves, which provide a lush backdrop throughout the year. During the spring, the plant produces clusters of small, white flowers that are both attractive and fragrant, adding to the aesthetic appeal of gardens and parks.

One of the standout features of the narrowleaf firethorn is its vibrant berries, which mature to a bright orange or red hue in the autumn. These berries persist into the winter months, providing a splash of color in otherwise stark landscapes. Additionally, these berries serve as a vital food source for various bird species, thus supporting local wildlife.

While relatively low-maintenance, the narrowleaf firethorn does have specific care requirements to ensure optimal growth. It thrives best in well-drained soil and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and remove any dead or overcrowded branches, particularly because the dense foliage can become a habitat for pests if not properly managed.

The narrowleaf firethorn’s resilience to different environmental conditions, coupled with its ornamental beauty, makes it a prized addition to gardens and public spaces. Its ability to provide year-round interest through its foliage, flowers, and berries ensures that this plant remains a favorite among horticulturists and garden enthusiasts alike.

Common Names

Eng: narrowleaf firethorn, orange firethorn, yellow firethorn
Afr: geelbranddoring
Swe: luddeldtorn
Por: piracanta
En: Narrowleaf firethorn, Orange firethorn, Yellow firethorn
Af: Geelbranddoring
Pt: Piracanta
Sv: Luddeldtorn

Synonyms

• Cotoneaster angustifolius (Franch.)

Distribution

• China South-Central (native)
• China Southeast (native)
• Tibet (native)
• Argentina Northeast (introduced)
• Argentina Northwest (introduced)
• California (introduced)
• Cape Provinces (introduced)
• Free State (introduced)
• Hawaii (introduced)
• Korea (introduced)
• KwaZulu-Natal (introduced)
• Lesotho (introduced)
• New South Wales (introduced)
• New Zealand North (introduced)
• New Zealand South (introduced)
• Northern Provinces (introduced)
• Spain (introduced)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Nov 24, 2022 by 道草 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 29, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 20, 2022 by Monteiro Henrique (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 20, 2022 by Monteiro Henrique (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 2, 2022 by Maria do Mar Mar (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Oct 30, 2019 by Jay (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 20, 2022 by Monteiro Henrique (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 29, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 24, 2022 by 道草 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 2, 2022 by Maria do Mar Mar (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 29, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 29, 2018 by Jean-Pierre Angelini (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2988222)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:730608-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pyracantha angustifolia (Franch.) C.K.Schneid.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Shrub

Growth