Pyracantha coccinea – Firebush, a Bonsai Bursting with Color
A 19-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, stands out for its abundant white spring blossoms and clusters of intense orange-red 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 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 obligation.
Key features
- Habitat: Outdoor
- Leaf type: Semi-evergreen
- Flowers: Yes – abundant white flowers in spring
- Produces fruit: Yes – orange-red berries from late summer to winter
- Family: Rosaceae
- Approximate dimensions (width × depth × height): 32 × 28 × 60 cm
- Pot dimensions: 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 provide valuable nourishment for birds during the winter months, transforming 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 harsh, prolonged temperatures below -5°C.
Watering
Regular and moderate: water abundantly in summer during active growth, and reduce watering in winter. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Pyracantha is relatively drought-resistant once acclimatized.
Fertilization
From spring to autumn, use the organic-mineral fertilizer Hiryo Gold or the fast-acting fertilizer Nutribonsai. Do not fertilize during flowering to avoid compromising berry production. Resume fertilization once the fruits have appeared.
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, watering with Mistral Bonsai’s Vitabonsai revitalizer is recommended to speed up the plant’s recovery.
Growing medium
Terrabonsai – a special bonsai substrate that meets water and nutrient requirements 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 is possible in late winter to maintain the structural shape. Be careful of the thorns during pruning: protective gloves are recommended.
Pinching
During the growing season: pinch new shoots, leaving 1–2 pairs of leaves to encourage branching and maintain the canopy’s compact shape.
Wiring
Can be carried out year-round, preferably in spring and early summer. Take particular care with the thorns when working on the branches.
