Scarlet Firethorn is a large, fast growing, semi-evergreen to evergreen shrub that is cherished for its spectacular fall and winter display of scarlet fruits and ability to withstand difficult conditions. Shooting long limber stems in all directions, an untrained Firethorn, typically grows into a tangled mound up to 18 feet in height and 12 feet wide. It is armed with sharp thorns that hide among the dark, glossy green leaves. Abundant clusters (corymbs) of small white flowers appear in spring. The flower clusters are up to 2 inches across and are borne close together creating the appearance of nearly solid surface of flowers. In fall the 1/4 inch berries begin to ripen, their color mellowing from green to shades of red and orange. These persist through winter and into early spring depending on climate and appetite of the local bird population. The prolific flowers are lovely to behold and have some fragrance (although not all would agree that it is appealing). Birds, especially cedar waxwings, like the plump, colorful berries. The brilliant berry-laden branches of Firethorn hold up extremely well in cut arrangements and add interest and color to wreaths.