Sunny (full sun) or at least full daylight Position, however, in semi-shade or full shade produces less or hardly any flowers and fruit. Nutrient-rich and moist soils with good water retention.

Scrambler, up to 3m, at times cascading. Thorny, evergreen.

White panicles in June. Fruit in winter depending on species either yellow, orange or red; bird food.

New shoots in spring

Firethorn with colourful foliage after a long winter

Scarlet firethorn, attached on strategically placed wall eyelets, ivy to the right.

Scarlet firethorn on vertical wire ropes

Rods, trellises and nets with generous mesh width for tying and guiding the shoots. For suitable growth support systems see below. Mostly Medium, if required also Light Growth Support Systems.

If required after winter, encourages branching; also suitable for topiary.

Depending on the species, firethorn may be susceptible to scurf and fire blight. A relatively resistant species is the classic hybrid "Red Column." The seeds are slightly poisonous.

Firethorn shrubs as graffiti protection along the base of a building

Firethorn, attached in strategic points