Pyracantha coccinea Saphyr Jaune - Scarlet Firethorn

The Pyracantha 'Saphyr Jaune®' is part of a line of bushes resistant to diseases such as bacterial fire blight and scab that affect older varieties. Both ornamental and incredibly robust, the 'Saphyr' developed by INRA have restored the reputation of these thorny bushes that have long been relegated to a defensive role and neglected. When left to grow freely, 'Saphyr Jaune' quickly develops a slightly untidy habit, with branches weighted down by bright yellow berries that blaze in the autumn light. Its branches arch with age, making it suitable for training. In spring, the white flowers attract many pollinating insects, while its berries provide food for birds in the colder months. An extremely easy bush to grow even in poor soils. Generously provided by nature, it deserves to be truly integrated into the garden's landscape!

Originally from Asia and southern Europe, pyracanthas have given rise to many horticultural varieties. Just like cotoneasters, they belong to the rose family. 'Saphyr Jaune', with vigorous growth, has a slightly pendulous bushy habit reaching 3 metres (9.8ft) in height with a spread of 2 to 3 metres (6.5 to 9.8ft). Its flowering period extends from May to July depending on the mildness of the climate. Numerous clusters of small pure white flowers appear along the branches, grouped in corymbs. These flowers are nectar-rich and pleasantly fragrant. Flowers are followed by bright berries, 1 centimetre (0.03in) wide, resembling yellow pearls. The small, shiny, dark green leaves, remain evergreen and dense in winter. The branches arch as they age, are tinged with red and equipped with formidable spines about 3 centimetres (0.09in) long. 

Overused, overpruned, too diseased, and too common? The modern pyracantha is still a bush that tolerates any growing conditions and does not suffer from structural or artistic pruning. A boon for uncultivated or even rocky soils, it has the advantage of bringing a bit of lushness and colour to neglected gardens and abandoned boundaries, while perfectly fulfilling its role as a defender. Great for creating defensive hedges or topiaries, it will especially attract attention in autumn and winter with its abundant and colourful berries, while protecting the garden from prying eyes and sheltering many small, beneficial animals. It can be honoured by being allowed to grow freely, in the distance, at the corner of a neglected building, or at the edge of a natural grove; in these conditions, it will become covered with flowers or fruits. In a hedge, mix it with other varieties to play with the different colours of fruit, but also with other shrubs such as Cotoneaster, Holly, Eleagnus, Deciduous or Evergreen Spindle Trees, Brooms, Bay Laurel...