Photinia beauverdiana

RHS Plant Profile
Christmas berry
Trees

A spreading deciduous tree with long, oval, dark green leaves, turning red in autumn. Clusters of small, white flowers, 5cm across, appear in late spring followed by red berries

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 Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
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
W China

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, humus-rich, acid or neutral soil in sun or partial shade. 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

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

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