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Description
Pyracantha coccinea Red Star is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is also known as firethorn because of its sharp thorns and bright red berries that ripen in the fall. This evergreen shrub is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks all over the world. Pyracantha coccinea Red Star is a popular choice for hedges, screens, and borders because of its dense growth habit and stunning display of berries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Pyracantha |
Appearance
Pyracantha coccinea Red Star is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval in shape and about 2 inches long. In the spring, it produces clusters of white flowers that are followed by bright red berries in the fall. The berries are about 1/4 inch in diameter and are a favorite of birds. Pyracantha coccinea Red Star has sharp thorns that can grow up to 1 inch long, so it’s important to wear gloves when handling it.
Care Guide
Pyracantha coccinea Red Star is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Pyracantha coccinea Red Star prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
- Soil: Pyracantha coccinea Red Star prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH.
- Sunlight: Pyracantha coccinea Red Star prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer berries.
- Hardiness Zones: Pyracantha coccinea Red Star is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pyracantha coccinea Red Star is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fire blight, a bacterial disease that causes leaves and branches to wilt and turn black. To prevent fire blight, prune infected branches and avoid overhead watering. Pyracantha coccinea Red Star can also be attacked by spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Pyracantha coccinea Red Star is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks all over the world. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and moisture levels. Pyracantha coccinea Red Star is commonly found in hedgerows, woodland edges, and other habitats where it can grow and spread freely.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pyracantha coccinea Red Star be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Pyracantha coccinea Red Star can be grown in pots as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate its root system. Make sure the pot has drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: When should I prune my Pyracantha coccinea Red Star?
A: Prune your Pyracantha coccinea Red Star in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Why is my Pyracantha coccinea Red Star not producing berries?
A: Pyracantha coccinea Red Star requires full sun to produce a good crop of berries. If your plant is in partial shade, it may produce fewer berries. Also, make sure that your plant is getting enough water and nutrients.
Q: Can Pyracantha coccinea Red Star be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Pyracantha coccinea Red Star can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in late fall or early winter. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a warm, bright location until they root.
Related Plants
- Pyracantha angustifolia
- Pyracantha coccinea
- Pyracantha fortuneana
- Pyracantha koidzumii
References
- “Pyracantha Coccinea ‘Red Star’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c222.
- “Pyracantha Coccinea ‘Red Column’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16790/Pyracantha-coccinea-Red-Column/Details.
- “Pyracantha Coccinea Red Star.” Gardenia.net. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/pyracantha-coccinea-red-star.
