Photinia microphylla
small-leaved photinia
A rare species of evergreen shrub to around 1.2m with small, glossy and leathery dark green leaves turning to shades of red and orange in the autumn. White flowers appear in spring to early summer, followed by attractive, yellow berries turning to glossy red in autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Red Orange | Yellow Red | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical 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
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, humus-rich soil in sun or partial shade. See photinia cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to vine weevil
Diseases
May be susceptible to fireblight, a leaf spot, honey fungus and powdery mildews
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.