firethorn

[ fahyuhr-thawrn ]

noun

1. any of several evergreen, thorny Asian shrubs belonging to the genus Pyracantha, of the rose family, many species of which are cultivated for their foliage and ornamental fruits.

firethorn

/ ˈfaɪəˌθɔːn /

noun

1. any rosaceous evergreen spiny shrub of the genus Pyracantha , of SE Europe and Asia, having bright red or orange fruits: cultivated for ornament

Word History and Origins

Origin of firethorn¹

An Americanism dating back to 1905–10

Example Sentences

One 17th-century plant now growing there called the firethorn — which leaves a delightful citrus smell on the fingers when rubbed — is prized and feared because it literally catches on fire with the slightest heat.

From Seattle Times

Pyracantha, also known as "firethorn," European holly, which has very sharp leaves, and voodoo rose.

From US News