Pyracantha Soleil d'Or: The Bright Yellow Firethorn for Your Garden
Firethorn Soleil d’Or

Position
- Full sun to partial shade
- Any aspect including north-facing
- Good for exposed sites
- Excellent against walls or fences
Hardiness
- Hardy down to -20°C (-4°F)
- Suitable for all UK regions
Soil Type
- Adapts to most soil types
- Well-drained soil preferred
- Tolerates acid, neutral or alkaline pH
- Copes with poor soils
Soil PH
- Tolerates acid, neutral or alkaline pH
Height
- Height: 3-4m (10-13ft)
- Spread: 2-3m (6-10ft)
- Can be maintained smaller with pruning
Seasons of Interest
- Foliage: Evergreen with dramatic colour changes
- Young growth emerges bright red in spring
- Summer foliage deep burgundy-green
- Winter colour intensifies to deep wine-red
- Flowers: Small white bell-shaped blooms in April-May
Additional Notes
- Excellent security plant due to thorns
- Perfect for training against walls
- Good nesting site for birds
- Berries attractive to birds in winter
- Can be formally trained or left naturally
- Disease resistant variety
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Fire blight resistant
- Suitable for creating hedges
- Fast-growing
- Good for wildlife gardens
- Can be espaliered
- Tolerates urban pollution
- May need support when young if grown as a climber
Pyracantha Soleil d’Or
Pyracantha Soleil d’Or, also known as yellow firethorn, is a stunning addition to any garden. Its vibrant yellow berries and attractive white flowers make it a standout choice for hedges, pots, or as a standalone shrub. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about growing and caring for this beautiful plant.
What is Pyracantha Soleil d’Or?
Pyracantha Soleil d’Or is a variety of firethorn prized for its profusion of bright yellow berries in autumn and winter. This evergreen shrub boasts dense clusters of small white flowers in late spring, followed by a profusion of bright yellow berries. These berries provide a fantastic food source for birds throughout the colder months. It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant, thriving in a wide range of conditions.
Growing Pyracantha Soleil d’Or: The Basics
Pyracantha Soleil d’Or is a versatile plant suitable for various situations. Whether you want a stunning hedge or a vibrant potted specimen, this firethorn can adapt. It performs well in full sun or partial shade, making it suitable for many garden locations. Remember that well-drained soil is crucial; avoid waterlogging.
Choosing Your Pyracantha: Pot Grown or Bare Root?
The choice between pot-grown and bare-root pyracantha plants depends on your needs and planting time. Pot-grown plants can be planted anytime, offering immediate impact. Bare-root plants, usually cheaper, require planting during the dormant season. I would always advise pot grown.
Planting Your Pyracantha Soleil d’Or
Planting your Pyracantha is straightforward. Ensure you choose a location with well-drained soil and plant at the appropriate time. For pot-grown plants, simply remove from the pot, loosen the roots slightly, and plant at the same depth. Bare-root plants need careful handling to avoid damaging the root system. Water thoroughly after planting.
Pyracantha Soleil d’Or as a Hedge: A Stunning Addition
The Pyracantha makes an excellent hedging plant. Its dense, spiny growth forms a formidable barrier against intruders, while its evergreen foliage provides year-round screening. Regular pruning will keep it looking neat and prevent it from becoming overgrown.
Pyracantha Soleil d’Or in Pots: A Versatile Choice
Growing Pyracantha Soleil d’Or in a pot offers versatility. You can move it to different locations within your garden to take advantage of the sun throughout the day. Choose a pot with good drainage. Remember that plants grown in pots will require more frequent watering, especially during dry periods. The pot size should be appropriate to the plant’s size.
Caring for Your Pyracantha Soleil d’Or
Pyracanthas are drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering, especially during extended dry periods, will help it flourish. While not essential, feeding with a fertiliser in spring encourages strong growth and abundant flowering and fruiting. Pruning in late winter or early spring helps to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Your Pyracantha: Maintaining the Shape and Size
Regular pruning is key to maintaining your Pyracantha Soleil d’Or’s shape and size. Always use sharp, clean pruning shears.
Pyracantha Soleil d’Or Special Offers and Where to Buy
Many garden centres and nurseries offer Pyracantha Soleil d’Or plants. They are also available online from mail order companies and also from Amazon.
Troubleshooting Common Pyracantha Problems
While generally hardy, Pyracantha Soleil d’Or can be susceptible to certain problems. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Pests and diseases are rarely a major issue but contact your local nursery or garden centre if you notice problems.
Key Points to Remember:
- This evergreen shrub produces stunning bright yellow berries in autumn and winter
- It thrives in full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil
- Regular pruning is beneficial to maintain its shape and promote abundant berries
- Pot-grown plants are readily available for immediate planting. Bare-root plants are cheaper but require planting during the dormant season
Check out the RHS article here.
For more information on Shrubs for your garden please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Pyracantha Soleil d’Or?
A: Pyracantha Soleil d’Or, also called yellow firethorn, is a thorny, evergreen shrub. It produces brilliant yellow berries and dense clusters of white flowers. It’s a popular choice for gardens and hedges.
Q: How do I care for my yellow Pyracantha plants?
A: Pyracantha are relatively low-maintenance. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun or partial shade. Water them during dry spells, as they’re drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Can I grow Pyracantha as a hedge?
A: Definitely! Pyracantha are frequently grown as hedges. They create a thick, thorny barrier, ideal for privacy and security. Plus, the yellow berries add a splash of colour!
Q: Where can I buy Pyracantha Soleil d’Or?
A: You can buy yellow Pyracantha plants at your local garden centre or online at Amazon.
Q: When will my Pyracantha produce yellow berries?
A: Your Pyracantha Soleil d’Or should produce its beautiful yellow berries in late summer or early autumn, usually after a couple of growing seasons.
Q: What height and spread can I expect from my Pyracantha hedge?
A: The height and spread of Pyracantha vary by variety, but they generally reach 3-4 metres tall and wide. Give them plenty of space to grow.
Q: How long will it take for my Pyracantha to grow after planting?
A: Growth rates vary, but with proper care, you’ll see noticeable growth within a year or two.