Photinia Growing Guide
What is Photinia?
Photinia (Photinia spp.) are a large family of small evergreen trees or shrubs. They are part of the Roseaceae or rose family and are native to Asia. There are around 60 species that occur naturally with many hybrids and cultivars that come in different sizes and slightly alterations of colour. Photinia are mainly grown for their striking foliage which is usually bright red as new growth before turning to dark green. Colours will differ slightly such as the variety “Pink Marble” which has white edges and a pinky tone rather than red. Photinia “Red Robin” is probably the most popular of the hedge varieties. Photinia flower in late Spring with small white flowers that will develop into small apple shaped red fruits, which the birds love. They require a full sun to part shade position in the garden that has well draining soil. Photinia are frost tolerant once established.
Benefits of Growing Photinia
Photinia are hardy fast growing evergreen shrubs. They are ideal for creating a dense hedge or screen, or taller varieties used as a windbreak.
How to Grow Photinia
Photinia Red Robin
Climatic Zones
Cool to mild tropical with some varieties suitable for tropical conditions.
Plant Size
Sizes will vary depending on variety.
Red Robin Height: 3-4m, Width: 2-3m
Robusta Height: 3-4m, Width: 2-3m
Rubens Height: 5m, Width: 3-4m
When To Plant Photinia
Plant anytime.
Soil Preparation
Photinia will tolerate a wide range of soil types but require a well drained soil.
How To Plant Photinia
Plant in full sun to part shade, with the plant crown at soil level. Plant 1-1.5m apart for a formal hedge.
Photinia Plant Care
Photinia need very little watering once established. When watering you should water deeply.
Fertilise at least once a year with some slow release fertiliser around Spring time.
Mulch annually around the base of the plants to retain moisture. Leave a small gap between the mulch and the trunk of the tree.
Regular pruning will help to maintain a tidy dense hedge. Usually a tidy-up prune should be done once or twice a year.
If you want a good flower showing avoid pruning in early Spring when the flower buds are starting to form.
Photinia can be susceptible to fungal attacks if there is too much moisture.
Recommended Photinia Varieties
A bright and colourful hedging plant.
Photinia Pink Marble
Photinia Robusta
Photinia Rubens
