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Description
Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin, also known as Christmas berry, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to southeastern Asia, including China and Vietnam. This plant is popular for its bright red new growth that appears in spring, which contrasts well with the dark green foliage of mature leaves. The cultivar ‘Little Red Robin’ is a compact form of Photinia Fraseri, growing up to 1.5m tall and wide, making it an ideal choice for small gardens or hedges.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Photinia |
Appearance
Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin has glossy, dark green leaves that are around 10cm long and 3cm wide. In spring, the new growth appears bright red, which contrasts well with the mature leaves. The flowers of this plant are small and white, and they bloom in late spring or early summer. The fruit is a small red berry that appears in autumn and persists through winter. Overall, this plant has a neat, compact appearance that makes it a popular choice for gardens.
Care Guide
To keep your Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin healthy, it is essential to provide it with proper care. Here are some care tips:Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Ensure that the soil is well-drained.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.Soil: Plant in well-drained, fertile soil. The ideal pH level is between 6.0 and 6.5.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Some common pests that can affect Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin include spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Diseases that can affect this plant include fire blight, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin is native to southeastern Asia, including China and Vietnam. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and along stream banks. In gardens, this plant is often used as a hedge, border, or specimen plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin a good hedge plant?
A: Yes, it is a popular choice for hedges due to its neat, compact growth habit.Q: When should I prune Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.Q: How often should I fertilize Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring.Q: Can Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and it receives enough sunlight.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Photinia Fraseri Little Red Robin:- Photinia serratifolia- Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’- Photinia glabra- Photinia davidiana
References
– University of Florida IFAS Extension: Photinia Fraseri ‘Little Red Robin’- Royal Horticultural Society: Photinia Fraseri ‘Little Red Robin’- Missouri Botanical Garden: Photinia Fraseri
