Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
120 inches
Width
120 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to Moderate
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Long-lived shrub
Native To
Hybrid
Toxicity
Berries are mildly toxic if ingested in quantity. Sharp thorns.
The Story
Plant Bio
Pyracantha is a genus of large, thorny evergreen shrubs in the rose family, grown for their decorative clusters of spring flowers and brilliant, long-lasting fall and winter berries. 'Mohave' is a vigorous hybrid known for its exceptional resistance to fire blight and scab, two common diseases of the genus. It produces a massive crop of bright orange-red berries.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a location in full sun for best berry production
- Ensure the soil is well-drained; it is adaptable to pH
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball
- Set the plant at the same depth it was in the container
- Backfill with soil and water thoroughly
- Water regularly during the first year to establish
Pro Tip
Wear thick, protective gloves when pruning; the thorns are formidable. Prune after flowering to avoid removing the wood that will produce berries.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in full sun for the most flowers and fruit.
- Provide good air circulation to minimize disease risk.
- Prune selectively to maintain a natural shape or train as an espalier.
- Water deeply but infrequently once established.
Don't
- Do not plant in poorly drained or waterlogged soils.
- Avoid heavy shearing, which can remove all the flowering wood.
- Do not over-fertilize, which can lead to lush growth and fewer berries.
- Avoid planting near high-traffic walkways due to the sharp thorns.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mohave Firethorn questions
What zones can Mohave Firethorn grow in?
Mohave Firethorn is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mohave Firethorn deer resistant?
Yes — Mohave Firethorn is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mohave Firethorn bloom?
Mohave Firethorn typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mohave Firethorn need full sun?
Mohave Firethorn does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Mohave Firethorn drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mohave Firethorn handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Mohave Firethorn with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
