Photinia - (Photinia spp.)

The genus Photinia is a large group of about 40 species, predominantly evergreen shrubs or small trees, though some deciduous species also exist.

In most species, the new growth emerges in shades of red, varying in intensity depending on the cultivar.

Small white flowers are typically produced in spring in corymbose clusters, followed in autumn by red berries. However, evergreen species (with the exception of P. davidiana) rarely set fruit, presumably due to a lack of sufficient sun or heat.

It is precisely these striking, brilliant reddish young leaves that make photinia such a highly sought-after ornamental plant.

They prefer full sun to partial shade, and are resilient, fast-growing plants.

Depending on the variety, they can be used for tall hedges, medium hedges, borders, solitary specimen planting, or in pots and planters.

Among the most popular cultivars are: ‘Red Robin’ (ideal for tall hedges), ‘Compacta’ (ideal for medium hedges), ‘Nana’, and ‘Chico’ (ideal for low borders).