Pyracantha 'Cherri Berri' #5 Care Guide

Introduction

Pyracantha 'Cherri Berri' (Pyracantha 'Cherri Berri') is a compact, mounding firethorn shrub producing masses of bright red berries in fall and winter that attract birds. It is an easy perennial shrub featuring white spring flowers and glossy evergreen foliage, well-suited to Florida landscapes. Available in a #5 container.

Growing conditions

• Light: Full sun to partial shade.
• Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established.
• Soil: Well-draining soil; tolerates poor soils.
• Fertilizer: Light application of balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.
• Season: Evergreen perennial shrub; grows year-round in Florida.

Planting tips

Plant in a location with good drainage. Excellent for hedges, espaliers, and wildlife gardens. Thorny branches make it a good security planting along fences or property lines. Prune after flowering to shape. Salt-tolerant and deer-resistant.

Troubleshooting

Fire blight

Bacterial disease causing blackened, wilted shoots. Prune affected branches well below the damage and sterilize pruning tools between cuts.

Scab

Fungal spots on berries and leaves. Improve air circulation and apply copper-based fungicide in spring.

Scale insects

Check stems for scale. Treat with horticultural oil spray in late winter or early spring.

Pet safety

Pyracantha berries are mildly toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities. The thorns can also cause physical injury.

Quick care summary

Difficulty: Easy. Light: Full sun to partial shade. Watering: Low to moderate, drought-tolerant once established. Humidity: Low to moderate. Pet safety: Mildly toxic; berries harmful in large quantities.