Pyracantha coccinea – The firebush, a bonsai bursting with color
An outdoor bonsai that is 19 years old, one of the most spectacular for the rich colors it offers in every season. Pyracantha coccinea, known as firethorn or firebush, stands out for its abundant white spring blossoms and clusters of deep orange-red berries that color its 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: Bonsai + Pyracantha coccinea drip tray.
Important notes: The bonsai's shape and dimensions are approximate (including the pot). The pot's color and shape may differ from the photographs. As these are living plants, their appearance changes with the seasons; the images are therefore for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a contractual commitment.
Key features
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Habitat: Outdoors
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Leaf type: Semi-evergreen
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Flowering: Yes – abundant white flowers in spring
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Fruiting: Yes – orange-red berries from late summer through winter
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Family: Rosaceae
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Approximate dimensions (width × depth × height): 32 × 28 × 60 cm
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Pot size: Under 16 cm
Interesting facts
The name Pyracantha comes from Greek: pyr (fire) and akantha (thorn) – literally, “fire thorn”, a tribute to the fiery color of its berries and the dense thorns that protect its branches. Although the berries are not suitable for human consumption, they are a valuable food source for birds during the winter months, turning the bonsai into a small, living ecosystem.
Placement
Place outdoors in full sunlight or partial shade. Good sun exposure encourages abundant flowering and berry production. It tolerates winter cold well, including brief frosts, but should be protected from very low temperatures that persist below -5°C.
Watering
Water regularly and moderately: generously in summer during active growth, and less in winter. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Once acclimated, Pyracantha is relatively drought-resistant.
Fertilizing
From spring to fall, use the Hiryo Gold organic-mineral fertilizer or the fast-acting Nutribonsai fertilizer. Do not fertilize during flowering so as not to compromise berry production. Resume fertilizing once the fruit appears.
Repotting
Every 2-3 years, in spring before vegetative growth resumes. Pyracantha has a vigorous root system: work carefully to avoid damaging the fine roots. After repotting, we recommend watering with Mistral Bonsai's Vitabonsai revitalizer to help the plant recover faster.
Substrate
Terrabonsai – a special bonsai substrate that meets the plant's water and nutrient needs, 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 done in late winter to maintain its structural shape. Take care of the thorns while pruning: protective gloves are recommended.
Pinching
During the growing season: pinch new shoots, leaving 1-2 pairs of leaves to encourage branching and maintain a compact canopy.
Wiring
Can be done year-round, preferably in spring and early summer. Take particular care of the thorns when working on the branches.
