About
Photinia davidiana, stranvaesia, is a large evergreen shrub with elliptic leaves, some of which turn red in autumn and persist into winter. White flowers in late spring are followed by conspicuous, long-lasting red berries. A rewarding and ornamental shrub 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, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, large borders, parkland settings.
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 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 resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fireblight, a leaf spot, honey fungus and powdery mildews