About
This evergreen shrub or small tree with elliptic to lance-shaped leaves that emerge red to olive green with pink margins before maturing to dark grey-green with creamy-white margins. Panicles of creamy-white spring flowers may be followed by red fruits.
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
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-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 usesCottage 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
CultivationGrows best in fertile, humus-rich soil in sun or partial shade. See photinia cultivation
PruningMost cultivars may be pruned hard in spring to regenerate if necessary. If growing as a hedge trim two or three times during the growing season to main shape and encourage new red foliage. See pruning evergreen shrubs for further advice
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