About
Photinia niitakayamensis, the Taiwanese photinia, is an evergreen shrub to around 3 m with a densely branching habit, narrow, glossy, dark-green leaves with paler undersides, and sometimes wavy edges. Older leaves turn dark red in autumn. Dome-shaped clusters of small, white flowers appear in early summer, followed by bright pinkish-red berries that persist into winter. A rewarding and ornamental photinia 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
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
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
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 10. Pruning may reduce flowering and fruiting
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fireblight, a leaf spot, honey fungus and powdery mildews