About
Celastrus pyracanthus is a robust shrub, reaching heights of approximately 3 meters. Its arching stems are covered in spiny growth and bear dark green, leathery leaves that can grow up to 3 centimeters in length. The plant produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers, which are succeeded by woody fruits that start as cream and mature to a pinkish-red hue.
About the genus
Celastrus consists of rapidly growing deciduous vines, and occasionally evergreen varieties, characterized by their climbing or twining stems. The leaves are arranged alternately, and the flowers are small and greenish, often going unnoticed. These plants produce appealing fruits after flowering, with male and female blooms typically found on different individuals.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
- Toxicity
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free