Plantae > Tracheophyta > Magnoliopsida > Rosales > Rosaceae > Pyracantha > Pyracantha angustifoliaPyracantha angustifolia (narrowleaf firethorn)Synonyms: Cotoneaster angustifolia (homotypic) Pyracantha angustifolia is a species of shrub in the rose family known by the common names narrowleaf firethorn, slender firethorn and woolly firethorn. The flowers are white and produce small round pomes and can be orange to red in color. These fruits are astringent and bitter, making them inedible for humans, but they are a food source for birds. The leaves, fruit and seeds contain hydrogen cyanide, the source of the bitter taste. The stems and branches have sharp spines. This shrub is cultivated and grown in yards and gardens as an ornamental plant. It can be used to make hedges for home security. This species is native to China but has been introduced to North America. It is an invasive species in Hawaii and in other areas. |
Allergen Potential [1] | Medium | | Edible [2] | May be edible. See the Plants For A Future link below for details. | Flower Type [2] | Hermaphrodite | Hazards [2] | Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where most, if not all members of the genus produce hydrogen cyanide, a poison that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. This toxin is found mainly in the leaves and seed and is readily detected by its bitter taste. It is usually present in too small a quantity to do any harm but any very bitter seed or fruit should not be eaten. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death. | Leaf Type [2] | Evergreen | Lifespan [3] | Perennial | Pollinators [2] | Bees | Structure [2] | Shrub | Usage [2] | A fairly wind-tolerant shrub, it can be used in shelterbelt plantings; | | Height [2] | 9.84 feet (3 m) | Width [2] | 9.84 feet (3 m) | View Plants For A Future Record : Pyracantha angustifolia |
Species taxanomy provided by GBIF Secretariat (2022). GBIF Backbone Taxonomy. Checklist dataset https://doi.org/10.15468/39omei accessed via GBIF.org on 2023-06-13; License: CC BY 4.0
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