Overview
Pyracantha crenulata is a bushy shrubs in the genus Pyracantha, part of the Rosaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Pyracantha crenulata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include hedging and screens, wall side borders, cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and low maintenance.
About
Pyracantha crenulata, known as Nepalese firethorn or Nepalese whitethorn, is a bushy evergreen shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family. Like other Pyracantha species, it features thorny branches with simple leaves and produces clusters of small white flowers that develop into vibrant berries. This hardy plant thrives in a variety of soil types and pH levels, preferring well-drained conditions in full sun or partial shade. It is suitable for hedging, screens, and informal gardens, providing winter interest and supporting wildlife.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pyracantha
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Pyracantha crenulata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Hedging and screens, Wall side borders, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pyracantha crenulata
- Propagation
- Semi-hardwood cuttings from late-spring onwards
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Woolly aphid, Caterpillars, Brown scale, Leaf-mining moths
- Disease resistance
- Pyracantha scab, Honey fungus, Fireblight
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pyracantha crenulata?
Pyracantha crenulata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Pyracantha crenulata need?
Pyracantha crenulata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
Is Pyracantha crenulata hardy in the UK?
Pyracantha crenulata has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Pyracantha crenulata?
Semi-hardwood cuttings from late-spring onwards.
More in the Pyracantha genus
- Pyracantha angustifolianarrowleaf firethorn

- Pyracantha 'Lavinia Rutgers'
- Pyracantha 'Monrovia'
- Pyracantha 'Orangeade'
- Pyracantha 'Ventoux Red'
- Pyracantha Alexander Pendula ('Renolex')