About
Photinia beauverdiana var. notabilis, the noble Christmas berry, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree to around 9 m with fine-toothed, ovate to elliptic leaves to 12.5 cm long. Clusters 7.5�10 cm across of small, white flowers appear in spring and are followed by orange-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
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toChina
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
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fireblight, a leaf spot, honey fungus and powdery mildews