Scarlet firethorn is a large, fast-growing shrub with sharp spines. It has showy white blooms in spring and a spectacular display of orange/red fruit in the fall. The berries are bitter and astringent, making them inedible when raw. However, they can be cooked to make jellies, jams, sauces and marmalade.
Scarlet firethorn, a member of the rose family, is native to southern Europe and western Asia. It has been widely introduced as an ornamental plant in gardens since the late 16th century.