About
A spreading, evergreen tree with peeling grey and red-brown bark when mature. Small white flowers are produced in large, flattened clusters in late spring and early summer, followed by red fruit. Leaves are glossy dark green, red when young, and finely-toothed.
About the genus
Photinia can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs or trees, with simple leaves and panicles of small white flowers, usually followed by red berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 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
CultivationGrows best in fertile, humus-rich soil in sun or partial shade; young shoots may be damaged by late frosts. 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