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Narrowleaf firethorn

Pyracantha angustifoliafam. Rosaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleshrubsedibleedible fruitnative asiaornamentalshrub
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Pyracantha angustifolia (Narrowleaf firethorn) — botanical photograph
Pl. 3026 — Pyracantha angustifolia
Pyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifolia
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Overview

Narrowleaf firethorn (Pyracantha angustifolia) is a shrub native to the south-central and southeastern regions of China, as well as Tibet. This plant is part of the Rosaceae family and is known for its dense growth habit and clusters of small white flowers, which are followed by bright red berries. It thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Hardy in zones 6-10, narrowleaf firethorn can grow up to 3 meters tall and is often used as a windbreak or espalier due to its ornamental value. The fruit of the narrowleaf firethorn is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. The fruit adds a tart flavor to jams and jellies when cooked. This plant is introduced into several regions, including Argentina (Northeast and Northwest), California, Hawaii, Korea, KwaZulu-Natal, Lesotho, New South Wales, New Zealand (North and South), Northern Provinces, and Spain, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Narrowleaf firethorn?

Narrowleaf firethorn (Pyracantha angustifolia) is a shrub native to the south-central and southeastern regions of China, as well as Tibet. This plant is part of the Rosaceae family and is known for its dense growth habit and clusters of small white flowers, which are followed by bright red berries.

Compare with:Almond-leaved pear→Amelanchier weigandii→Asian Pear→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Narrowleaf firethorn thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-10 and can grow up to 3 meters tall as a shrub. For propagation, it can be grown from seeds or cuttings. The fruit of the narrowleaf firethorn is edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-10
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Narrowleaf firethorn for the first time

8steps

Start with Narrowleaf firethorn as a simple, low-maintenance shrub for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Narrowleaf firethorn plant, well-draining soil, and a container or planting site.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the weather is mild and stable.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for shrubs.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young Narrowleaf firethorn from a nursery pot into your prepared container or garden bed.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun to partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune regularly to encourage dense growth and remove any dead or damaged branches. Harvest fruit if desired for decorative purposes.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The narrowleaf firethorn's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. The fruit adds a tart flavor to jams and jellies when cooked.
Other uses:Wind breakerEspalier
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

3 native · 14 introduced
Distribution across4 continents· 3 native· 14 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Spain
Asia2 regions
native (1)China
introduced (1)South Korea
Americas1 region
introduced (1)United States
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Lesotho
Broader regions
introduced:Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, California, Cape Provinces, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, New South Wales, New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Northern Provinces
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Pyracantha angustifolia (Narrowleaf firethorn) — botanical photograph
Narrowleaf firethorn (Pyracantha angustifolia)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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