Scarlet firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea)

Scarlet firethorn

The ripe fruits (berries) of the firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea) can be picked in September and October. The thorns on the branches make this somewhat tedious and it’s a good idea to wear sturdy gardening gloves to avoid injury.

As an ornamental shrub, this plant species grows in many places, for example in parks and gardens, but it can also be found in several hedges. The firethorn grows to a height of 2 to 3, rarely 5 meters.

Most parrotbirds are very fond of the juicy fruit. Serve these berries either singly or on a branch. Don’t worry, the birds cleverly avoid the thorns when feeding.

Firethorn fruits can either be fed fresh, frozen or dried. However, it is important to ensure that they do not become moldy or rot.

The firethorn belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae).

You can find more photos of this species on NABU-naturgucker.de (German website, but also available in English language).