About

A compact, densely-branched, evergreen shrub or small tree to around 2.5m tall. New foliage emerges a coppery-brown in spring maturing to reddish-brown and finally dark green. the glossy leaves are held upright on shoots and are wavy with serrated leaf margins. Panicles of white flowers are borne from late spring into early summer.

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 typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
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, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, and in a position that is not prone to late frosts and is protected from cold, drying winds
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