Fraser Photinia, Red Tip

(Photinia x fraseri)

Contact: Diane Relf, Extension Specialist, Environmental Horticulture

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Evergreen broadleaf
Height: 10 to 20 feet
Spread: 5 to 10 feet
Shape: Bushy

This shrub's new foliage is red, but changes to glossy, dark green. Clusters of white flowers bloom in summer. Red fruit matures in late summer.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 6 to 9
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Moist or dry
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 7.3

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include hedge, massing, screen, and border.

Planting Notes:

Transplants readily.
Adaptable to many soil pH levels.
Select site with well-drained soil and good air circulation.

Care:

Easy to grow.
Withstands severe pruning.

Problems:

Susceptible to several problems including mildew, leaf spots, fireblight, scales, and a few other insects.
Winter injury is likely in cooler areas of Virginia.
Nitrogen deficiency results in yellowish foliage.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of PHOTINIA X FRASERII:
No important cultivars.

Comments:

Red Tip is seen everywhere in the south because it is easy to grow.
The flower odor of unpruned plants is obnoxious to some people and should be considered before planting close to walkways and entrances.
Most often used as a hedge or screen.

Additional Materials:

The PRUNING SERIES videotape can be ordered through your local Extension office. The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-500 "Winter Injury to Trees and Shrubs"
#426-607 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Broad-leaved Evergreens"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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