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Description
Photinia Fraseri Robusta, also known as the Red Robin, is a popular ornamental plant from the Rosaceae family. Native to Asia, this evergreen shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has beautiful glossy leaves that start as bright red when young, and then turn into a dark green as they mature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Photinia |
Appearance
The Photinia Fraseri Robusta has a dense and bushy growth habit, with branches that are covered in dark green leaves. The leaves have a leathery texture and are around 3-4 inches long. When the plant is young, the leaves are bright red, but as they mature, they change to a rich green color. In the springtime, the shrub produces small white flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers are followed by small red berries that are not edible.
Care Guide
Photinia Fraseri Robusta is a relatively low maintenance plant, but it does require some care to keep it healthy and looking its best. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the springtime and mid-summer.
- Soil: This plant grows well in a variety of soils, but prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Sunlight: The Photinia Fraseri Robusta prefers full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Photinia Fraseri Robusta is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. To prevent it, avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves.
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease causes wilting and blackening of the leaves and stems. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed.
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Photinia Fraseri Robusta is native to Asia, but it is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. It grows well in a variety of climates, but prefers a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. It can be grown as a hedge, a specimen plant, or in a mixed border with other shrubs and perennials.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Photinia Fraseri Robusta grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and provide good drainage.
Q: How often should I prune my Photinia Fraseri Robusta?
A: Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This will help to promote a dense and bushy habit.
Q: Can I grow the Photinia Fraseri Robusta in a shaded area?
A: While this plant prefers full sun, it can also tolerate partial shade. However, it may not produce as many flowers in a shaded area.
Q: Can the berries of the Photinia Fraseri Robusta be eaten?
A: No, the berries of this plant are not edible and can be toxic if ingested.
Related Plants
- Photinia glabra
- Photinia serratifolia
- Photinia davidiana
References
- “Photinia Fraseri ‘Red Robin’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16737/Photinia-x-fraseri-Red-Robin/Details.
- “Photinia Fraseri.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b597.
- “Photinia Fraseri.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp120.
