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Description
Photinia Fraseri, also known as Red Tip Photinia, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the rose family. It is native to southeastern China, but it is widely cultivated in many parts of the world due to its beautiful red foliage, fragrant white flowers, and ornamental berries that attract birds. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, but it is commonly pruned to maintain a smaller size. Photinia Fraseri is a popular landscaping plant that can be used as a hedge, screen, or specimen plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Photinia |
Appearance
Photinia Fraseri has glossy, oval-shaped leaves that are about 2 to 5 inches long and 1 to 3 inches wide. The new leaves emerge as bright red or bronze, but they turn dark green as they mature. The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant white flowers in late spring or early summer. The flowers are followed by small red berries that are about 1/4 inch in diameter. The bark of the plant is reddish-brown and peels off in thin layers, revealing a smooth, gray trunk. The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit that can be shaped by pruning.
Care Guide
Photinia Fraseri is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it requires some attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for your Photinia Fraseri:
Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the application in midsummer if necessary.
Soil: Photinia Fraseri prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may produce less foliage and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Photinia Fraseri is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9. It can tolerate some cold, but it may suffer damage in extreme temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Photinia Fraseri is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by some common problems:
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by keeping the plant dry and avoiding overhead watering.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overcrowding.
Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Aphids: These small insects can cause distortion and discoloration of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Photinia Fraseri is native to southeastern China, where it grows in forests, thickets, and open areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is commonly cultivated in many parts of the world as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Photinia Fraseri poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant, especially the berries, are toxic to humans and pets. They can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Q: How often should I prune my Photinia Fraseri?
A: You can prune your Photinia Fraseri once a year in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size. You can also prune it lightly throughout the growing season to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can I grow Photinia Fraseri in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Photinia Fraseri in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: How tall does Photinia Fraseri grow?
A: Photinia Fraseri can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, but it is commonly pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Related Plants
- Photinia serratifolia
- Photinia x fraseri ‘Robusta’
- Photinia davidiana
- Photinia glabra
References
- “Photinia x fraseri.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c291
- “Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/86267/Photinia-x-fraseri-Red-Robin/Details
- “Photinia x fraseri Red Robin.” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/photinia-x-fraseri-red-robin
