Pyracantha coccinea – The Firebush, a Bonsai Bursting with Color
A 9-year-old outdoor bonsai, among the most spectacular varieties thanks to the wealth of color it offers in every season. Pyracantha coccinea, known as firethorn or firebush, captivates with its abundant white spring blossoms and clusters of intense red-orange berries that color the branches from late summer through the depths of winter. A generous, lively bonsai with great visual impact, ideal for sunny gardens, balconies, and terraces.
Included in the kit: Pyracantha coccinea bonsai + saucer.
Important notes: The shape and dimensions of the bonsai are approximate (including the pot). The color and shape of the pot may differ from the photographs. As living plants, their appearance changes with the seasons; the images are therefore purely illustrative and do not constitute a contractual obligation.
Main Features
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Habitat: Outdoor
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Leaf type: Semi-evergreen
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Flowers: Yes – abundant white flowers in spring
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Produces fruit: Yes – red-orange berries from late summer through winter
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Family: Rosaceae
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Approximate dimensions (width × depth × height): 20 × 16 × 35 cm
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Pot dimensions: Under 16 cm
Fun Facts
The name Pyracantha derives from Greek: pyr (fire) and akantha (thorn) – literally “fire thorn”, a tribute to the fiery color of its berries and the density of the thorns that protect its branches. Although the berries are not suitable for human consumption, they provide valuable nourishment for birds during the winter months, turning the bonsai into a small, living ecosystem.
Position
Place it outdoors in full sunlight or partial shade. Good sun exposure encourages abundant flowering and berry production. It tolerates winter cold and even brief frosts well, but it should be protected from very cold, prolonged temperatures below -5°C.
Watering
Regular and moderate: water generously in summer during active growth, and reduce watering in winter. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Pyracantha is relatively drought-tolerant once acclimatized.
Fertilization
From spring to autumn, use the Hiryo Gold organic-mineral fertilizer or the fast-acting Nutribonsai fertilizer. Do not fertilize during flowering to avoid compromising berry production. Resume fertilization once the fruit has appeared.
Repotting
Every 2-3 years, in spring before vegetative growth resumes. Work carefully to avoid damaging the fine roots. After repotting, watering with Mistral Bonsai’s Vitabonsai revitalizer is recommended to speed up the plant’s recovery.
Substrate
Terrabonsai – a special bonsai substrate that meets water and nutritional needs while promoting root development and overall vigor. Alternatively: 60% Akadama + 40% Kiryuzuna, which provides excellent drainage.
Pruning
After flowering, between June and July, to preserve the buds that will produce the autumn berries. A second light pruning can be carried out in late winter to maintain the structural shape. Take care with the thorns during pruning: protective gloves are recommended.
Pinching
During the growing season: pinch the new shoots, leaving 1-2 pairs of leaves to encourage branching and maintain a compact canopy.
Wiring
Can be carried out year-round, preferably in spring and early summer. Take particular care with the thorns when working on the branches.
