Flower of the month (January): Pyracantha

Common name: Pyracantha (or firethorn).

Latin name: Pyracantha coccinea.

Planting months: Anytime for container-grown plants. Spring is generally the best time for transplanting.

Cold tolerance: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Light requirements: Full sun to shifting shade.

Soil requirements: Pyracanthas grow well in slightly acidic, well-drained soils.

Flowers: White blossoms in spring.

Fruit: Pyracanthas have 1/4-inch berries that mature to an orange to red color from October through February.

Leaf color: Evergreen shrub with dark green leaves.

Size: Up to 10 feet tall and 12 feet wide.

Plant spacing: Allow approximately 5 feet between plants.

Notes: A pyracantha's rapid growth habit makes it easy to trellis and to espalier, or train to grow flat against a fence or wall. Berries attract birds. It is susceptible to fire blight and scab.