Pyracantha SAPHYR Orange - Scarlet Firethorn

The Pyracantha 'Saphyr Orange ®' is part of a group of firethorn bushes developed by INRA, resistant to diseases such as bacterial fire and scab that affect old varieties. Both ornamental and incredibly robust, they have restored the nobility of these thorny shrubs, which had been relegated to a defensive role and neglected for so long. Left to grow naturally, 'Saphyr Orange' quickly takes on a slightly undisciplined habit, with branches laden with bright orange berries blazing in the autumn light. Its branches arch with age, which also allows it to be trained on an arch. In spring, the white flowers attract many pollinating insects, while its berries feed birds in the winter. A very easy to grow shrub, even in poor soils. Generously endowed by nature, it deserves to be truly integrated into the garden decor!

Native to Asia and southern Europe, pyracanthas have given rise to many horticultural varieties. Like cotoneasters, they belong to the Rosaceae family. 'Saphyr Orange Cadange', with vigorous growth, shows a slightly drooping bushy habit, a bit anarchic, reaching 3 metres (9.84ft) in height and 2 to 3 meters (6.5 to 9.8ft) in spread. Its flowering extends from May to July depending on the mildness of the climate. Along the branches, numerous clusters of small pure white flowers grouped in corymbs appear. These flowers are nectar-rich and pleasantly fragrant. It is followed by orange berries, shiny and 1cm (0.03in) wide. The shiny foliage, dark green in colour, persists in winter and remains dense. The reddish branches are equipped with formidable 3cm (0.9in) long thorns, and arch as they age. 

Over planted, over pruned, and over used? The modern pyracantha is still a shrub that tolerates any growing conditions and will tolerate geometric or  artistic pruning. A great choice for uncultivated or even rocky soils, it has the advantage of bringing a bit of leaf and colour to deprived gardens and abandoned boundaries, while efficiently doing its job as a defender. Perfect for creating defensive hedges or topiaries, it will attract special attention in autumn and winter with its abundant and colourful fruiting, while shielding the garden from prying eyes and sheltering many small beneficial animals. It can be utilised by letting it grow naturally, in the distance, at the corner of a somewhat neglected building, or on the edge of a natural grove. In these conditions, it will become a spectacular specimen with flowers and berries. In hedges, mix it with other varieties to play on the different fruit colours, and also with other shrubs like Cotoneaster, Holly, Eleagnus, Deciduous or Evergreen Euonymus, Brooms, Bay Laurel...