About

A compact, dense, bushy shrub to around 2m tall with glossy, dark green leaves and new shoots and leaves emerging red. Heads of small, white flowers are borne in spring.

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, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 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
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