General: The mall-leaved firethorn grows in its native China as a bulky and evergreen shrub. The leaves are glossy green, narrow and oblong. The bark is dark gray and the shoots are thorny. From May to June the firethorn blooms in white panicles and then forms pea-sized, red fruits that adhere to the plants until spring.
Care as a bonsai: The firethorn is a very vigorous plant and impresses with its intense flowering and great fruit decorations. Many new shoots form as a result of the pruning, and a dense crown quickly develops. The roots also grow very strong and it has to be watered carefully and repotted regularly. The firethorn is otherwise very undemanding compared to the site conditions. In winter, however, temperatures that are too low and especially late frosts in spring should be avoided.
