Red Tip Photinia
Photinia x fraseri
About this plant
Red Tip Photinia is a popular evergreen shrub known for its bright red new leaves that turn green as they mature. It is often used as a hedge or ornamental plant in gardens because of its colorful foliage and dense growth. This plant can grow quite tall and wide, providing good privacy and wind protection.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Photinia
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Higher classification
- Rosales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- China, India
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions around the world, especially in gardens and parks.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Garden
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, fertile garden soil
Watering. Water regularly during dry periods, especially in summer. Avoid waterlogging the soil as this can cause root problems.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to support healthy growth.
Red Tip Photinia is a fairly tough shrub but can be prone to fungal diseases if air circulation is poor or if overwatered. It needs regular pruning to maintain shape and encourage new red growth. Overall, it requires moderate care with attention to watering and disease prevention.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Bright red young leaves, glossy green mature foliage, and small white flowers in spring.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Safe around children and pets; no known toxic effects.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf spot disease caused by fungi, which appears as dark spots on leaves. Overwatering and poor air circulation can worsen this. Pests like aphids and scale insects may also appear.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental hedge or screen plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive foliage and fast growth.
Notes
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts to keep the plant dense and healthy. Avoid planting in areas with poor air flow to reduce disease risk.