Pyracantha Bonsai
Guidelines for Growing Pyracantha Bonsai
The word “bonsai” in many individuals brings to mind a tree that is perfectly formed although in miniature form; however, there are many types of the art form such as pyracantha bonsai that can be visually stunning. Whether admired for its greenery or valued for the snowy flowers or show stopping berry production, this shrub can easily become a prized possession.
Pyracantha is also known as “firethorn”; an apt name since the sensation imparted upon being scratched or punctured by one of the inch long thorns of this plant is a burning feeling. An element similar to salt is the cause of the burning; likely a protective measure meted out by the plant. Native to areas between southern Europe and southwestern Asia, the thorny evergreen is commonly found in woodland or scrub regions. It is often used as a type of ground or wall cover but is also easily adaptable when carefully pruned to form a tree like shape, which means it is a great choice for bonsai. Lovely greenery, bright white springtime blooms and colorful berries in the fall are all features that enhance the bonsai possibilities of this shrub.
Beginning a bonsai using pyracantha can be done either by planting seed or by propagating a stem from an existing shrub. When attempting to grow the plant from seed, it is helpful to soak the seeds which are obtained from the fruit for several hours or overnight. The seeds can be collected and planted in the fall season. This plant is fast growing, but growing pyracantha bonsai from seed does take longer than propagating cuttings. One of the main benefits of using the cutting method is that the grower has the opportunity to choose the exact pieces to achieve the desired look of the bonsai. Cuttings can be obtained during the summer months. Choose healthy stems between 2 and 5 inches in length and cut just below a leaf node. Trim off lower leaves, then insert cut ends into a mixture of half soil/half peat moss in the small bonsai container that you have chosen for your plant. It is important to root the cutting in the container the bonsai will remain in as this is not a plant that does well with transplanting. Water the cuttings well; invert a glass jar or bowl over the container to ensure a humid atmosphere during the rooting stage. Roots should develop within 8 weeks or so. The small plant should be kept indoors in indirect bright light until the next spring for the best results.
Branches of the pyracantha must be wired to attain the shaping desired of the branches, especially the primary branches. As with any bonsai, careful and artful pruning of the branches will provide the lovely, natural shaping of the pyracantha. Because of its quick growth habits, do not be surprised if frequent pruning is necessary in order to retain the shape of the bonsai. Designing a captivating shape for the small tree will be made even more magnificent once blooms begin to appear. This may take a few years; the bright white flowers form at the tips of branches, the very areas that are being pruned away in the early development of the bonsai. In the tree’s maturity, however, the flowers and the berries that will follow will create a show stopping visual treat. Its natural outdoor setting provides the best medium for growing pyracantha bonsai to its optimal size and appearance, although areas that experience severe winters should shelter the small tree.
The pyracantha is a prized bonsai due to its unique and distinct beauty. While it is not technically a tree, it can be shaped and pruned in such as way as to resemble a tree. Bedecked with flowers in the spring and either gold, orange or bright red berries in the autumn, the pyracantha is a perfect choice for decorative bonsai.