About
Photinia beauverdiana, Christmas berry, is a spreading, deciduous tree with long, oval, dark-green leaves that turn red in autumn. Clusters of small, white flowers 5 cm across appear in late spring and are followed by bright-red berries. A rewarding and ornamental tree for a sunny, sheltered garden.
About the genus
Photinia are evergreen or deciduous shrubs or trees with simple leaves, often with vivid-red new growth, and panicles of small, white flowers in spring usually followed by red berries. Popular and ornamental garden plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, City and courtyard gardens
Native toW China
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, acid or neutral soil in sun or partial shade. See photinia cultivation
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Or propagate by seed sown in containers, in a cold frame in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fireblight, a leaf spot, honey fungus and powdery mildews