About
An evergreen tree to around 4m with small, glossy and leathery dark green leaves which turn to shades of bright red, orange and yellow in the autumn. White flowers appear in spring to early summer, followed by attractive, glossy, egg-shaped red berries.
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, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
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
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. Avoid planting on shallow, chalky soils. See photinia cultivation
PruningPruning group 1
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