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Description
Photinia Fraseri Red Robin is an evergreen shrub that is known for its beautiful, glossy, dark green leaves that turn to bright red as they age. This plant is native to southeastern Asia and has become popular all over the world as a garden or landscape plant. It can grow up to 15 feet high and 10 feet wide, and has a round, dense growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Photinia |
Appearance
Photinia Fraseri Red Robin has elongated, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green on top and lighter green on the underside. As the leaves age, they turn a bright red color, creating a striking contrast against the new growth. The plant produces small, white flowers in the spring, which are followed by red berries in the fall. The bark is reddish-brown and peels away in thin strips. Overall, the plant has a neat and tidy appearance that makes it a popular choice for hedges or as a stand-alone shrub.
Care Guide
To keep your Photinia Fraseri Red Robin healthy and looking its best, follow these care guidelines:- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during hot, dry periods.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The plant thrives in slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Too much shade can result in leggy growth and fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Photinia Fraseri Red Robin is prone to several pests and diseases, including:- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown, circular spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.- Fire blight: This bacterial disease causes leaves and branches to wilt and turn brown. Prune infected areas and apply a bactericide to prevent further spread.- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Use a miticide to control the infestation.- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems, sucking the sap and causing yellowing and leaf drop. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
Habitat
Photinia Fraseri Red Robin is native to southeastern Asia, including China, Japan, and Vietnam. It is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes in temperate regions around the world. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Photinia Fraseri Red Robin be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers but will require regular watering and fertilization.Q: Can Photinia Fraseri Red Robin be pruned?
A: Yes, the plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.Q: Can Photinia Fraseri Red Robin be used as a hedge plant?
A: Yes, the plant is commonly used as a hedge plant due to its dense growth habit and attractive foliage.Q: Can Photinia Fraseri Red Robin tolerate drought?
A: The plant prefers moist soil and will not tolerate extended periods of drought. Water regularly during hot, dry periods.
Related Plants
– Photinia serratifolia- Photinia villosa- Photinia glabra- Photinia davidiana- Photinia x fraseri
References
– “Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin'” Missouri Botanical Garden- “Photinia x fraseri Red Robin” Royal Horticultural Society- “Photinia x fraseri Red Robin” Garden Design Magazine- “Photinia: A Versatile Shrub for the Garden” University of Florida Extension
