“Planted along the shaded fence for evergreen screening, with spring flowers and fall berries.”
Background
Pyracantha crenatoserrata 'Graberi' (also listed as P. x fortuneana 'Graberi') is a selected cultivar of firethorn, a rose-family genus native from southern Europe through southwest Asia to China. Firethorns have been cultivated in the West since the 16th century as berry-bearing hedges and espaliers. 'Graberi' is the upright, vigorous, red-berried selection sold across the Southwest and described by desert landscapers as a superior variety for desert climates.
Distinguishing traits
Vigorous medium-sized upright evergreen shrub, 6-12 ft; bright glossy green leaves; profuse small white spring flowers followed by dense clusters of bright red berries from fall into winter. Dense thorny branches make an effective security screen; tolerates shearing and espalier training.
Desert care — zone 9b
- Chill hours
- n/a — ornamental
- Cold hardiness
- Hardy in zones 7-10; established plants handle brief freezes to about 20°F.
- Heat tolerance
- Performs well in Phoenix heat and sun; also tolerates the shaded-fence placement Matt uses, though berry set is heaviest in sun.
- Water
- Deep, infrequent watering once established; good drainage essential. Low to moderate water use.
- Soil
- Adaptable to many well-drained soils, including alkaline desert soils.
- Sun exposure
- Full sun to partial shade.
Where to buy
- Moon Valley Nurseries