How to Grow Photinia

Photinias are large shrubs or, occasionally, small trees, grown principally for their handsome foliage as well as attractive flowers and fruits, depending on the type. Most photinias are evergreen and by far the most popular and colourful is Photinia ‘Red Robin’, which makes a superb display of leaves that are bright sealing-wax red when young. Photinia is easy to grow in the right conditions, hardy except in cold or exposed sites – and is prone to frost damage – and suits a range of sites and uses around the garden. Photinias are reasonably fast growing, typically putting on 30cm of growth per year, making them an ideal option for a hedge. Depending on the variety, photinia grows from between 1.5 and 4m high and wide.

Plant photinia in good soil and in a range of sites depending on the variety and intended use. Mulch with compost in early spring. Trim as required, in spring and summer.

Grow photinia in sun or partial shade, avoiding exposure to winds. In colder areas, site in a sheltered spot to avoid the foliage becoming scorched or damaged by frost. Grow in good fertile soil but not in ground prone to waterlogging or drought. Most photinias thrive in any reasonable soil though some of the less common species need neutral or acidic soil. Plant photinias at the back of a border, either on their own, as as a hedge or trained against a fence or wall. Compact-growing varieties such as ‘Little Red Robin’, or photinias trained as standards, suit large pots.

Plant in spring in colder areas so plants can become well established before winter. In milder areas, plant in autumn. However, photinias can be planted through the growing season if kept watered during dry