Photinia serratifolia

RHS Plant Profile
Chinese hawthorn
Chinese hawthorn RHS

Synonyms

Photinia serrulata

Trees

A spreading, evergreen tree with peeling grey and red-brown bark when mature. Leaves are glossy dark green, red when young, and finely-toothed. Small white flowers are produced in large, flattened clusters in late spring and early summer, followed by red fruit

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Photinia can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs or trees, with simple leaves and panicles of small white flowers, usually followed by red berries
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
China

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows best in fertile, humus-rich soil in sun or partial shade; young shoots may be damaged by late frosts. See photinia cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Or propagate by seed sown in containers, in a cold frame in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Low Maintenance
  • Wall side borders

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to fireblight, a leaf spot, honey fungus and powdery mildews