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Overview
A group of vigorous, thorny broadleaf evergreen to semi-evergreen shrubs typically reaching 6-12 feet (1.8-3.6 m) tall and 6-10 feet (1.8-3 m) wide, depending on species and cultivar. Growth rate is moderate to fast, adding 8-18 inches (20-45 cm) per year. The genus includes approximately 7 species and numerous cultivars, with P. coccinea, P. fortuneana, and P. koidzumii being the most commonly grown. Leaves are alternate, elliptical to obovate, 1-2.5 inches (2.5-6 cm) long and 0.3-0.75 inches (8-19 mm) wide, glossy dark green, with finely crenate (scalloped) margins. Stems bear sharp, rigid thorns 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) long, typically at leaf axils or branch tips. Flowers appear in May to June in dense corymbs 1-3 inches (2.5-8 cm) across, white, each approximately 0.3 inches (8 mm) across, with a mildly unpleasant musty scent. Fruit is the primary ornamental feature: dense clusters of small pomes approximately 0.25 inches (6 mm) in diameter, ripening in September to October to brilliant orange, orange-red, red, or yellow depending on cultivar, and persisting through winter until consumed by birds. The berry display is among the most spectacular of any temperate shrub. Susceptible to fire blight (Erwinia amylovora) and scab (Venturia inaequalis), both of which can severely damage fruit and foliage; disease-resistant cultivars are strongly recommended. Hardy to approximately -5 to 10°F (-20 to -12°C) depending on species.
Native Range
Various species are native to southeastern Europe (P. coccinea), China (P. fortuneana, P. atalantioides), and Taiwan (P. koidzumii). Found in open scrubland, hillsides, forest margins, and rocky slopes at low to moderate elevations.Suggested Uses
Commonly trained as an espalier against walls and fences, where the spectacular fruit display is shown to maximum effect. Suitable for informal hedging at 3-4 foot (0.9-1.2 m) spacing, where the thorns provide a deterrent barrier. The thorny habit makes it effective for security plantings beneath windows and along boundaries. Freestanding specimens provide vertical interest and winter fruit color. The berry display provides important winter food for birds including thrushes, waxwings, and robins. Tolerates urban pollution.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 12'
Width/Spread6' - 10'
Reaches mature size in approximately 5 years
Colors
Flower Colors
Foliage Colors
Bloom Information
Flowers from May to June in USDA zones 6-9. Dense corymbs 1-3 inches (2.5-8 cm) across bear white flowers approximately 0.3 inches (8 mm) across. Bloom lasts 2-3 weeks. The primary ornamental display is the fruit: dense clusters of small pomes ripen in September to October to brilliant orange, red, or yellow and persist through winter until consumed by birds.Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Glossy dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in full sun for the heaviest fruit production and best disease resistance. Adapts to a wide range of well-drained soil types and pH from 5.5 to 7.5. Avoid overly rich soil and excessive nitrogen, which promote succulent growth susceptible to fire blight. Water regularly during the first growing season; established plants tolerate moderate drought. Fire blight and scab are the most significant diseases; select resistant cultivars such as 'Mohave', 'Teton', or 'Fiery Cascade'. Prune out fire-blight-infected branches 12 inches (30 cm) below symptoms, sterilizing tools between cuts. The thorns are sharp — wear heavy gloves when pruning or handling.Pruning
Prune after flowering in June to July to shape and control size while preserving the developing fruit clusters. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, which removes berry-laden wood. For espalier training against a wall or fence, tie selected branches to the support structure and remove forward-facing growth. Remove crossing, damaged, or inward-growing branches. Prune out fire-blight-infected branches immediately, cutting 12 inches (30 cm) below symptoms and sterilizing tools. Wear heavy leather gloves due to the sharp thorns.Pruning Schedule
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