PLANT OF THE WEEK
This classic evergreen shrub is chiefly grown for its bright red, orange or yellow berries, which ripen in the autumn and often persist late into winter when there is little other colour about.
The larger sizes of pyracantha (up to 10 or 12ft) coupled with spiky stems often rule it out of many smaller gardens, but there’s no need to let it grow to full size.
Pyracantha makes a brilliant intruder-proof hedge that can be kept clipped to any suitable height and width, with the brilliant display of berries forming a midwinter bonus. It also looks stunning trained out flat against a wall as a formal espalier or fan. Garden centres stock a good range of varieties – check the label for ultimate size and good disease resistance.