Species

Photinia x fraseriRed Tip Photinia

2 other cultivars

shrub

Red Tip Photinia

Photinia x fraseri 'Robusta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Photinia x fraseri is a vigorous evergreen hybrid shrub of garden origin, characterized by an upright-spreading, dense habit and glossy foliage. The small, white flowers are produced in broad, flat-topped terminal clusters during spring, followed by small pome fruits that attract foraging birds.

'Robusta' is distinguished by its exceptionally robust growth habit, reaching heights up to thirty-three feet when left unpruned, and its highly pronounced bronze-red new foliage. This cultivar exhibits excellent wind resistance and salt tolerance, making it highly effective for tall privacy screens and coastal windbreaks.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round structure with glossy evergreen leaves and a dramatic display of bright bronze-red new growth in spring.

Serves as an exceptionally dense, wind-resistant barrier or tall privacy screen that tolerates coastal salt spray.

Offers nesting sites and protective cover for birds, while the spring flowers attract generalist pollinating insects.

SpeciesPhotinia x fraseriRed Tip Photinia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

394"

Width

197"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Garden hybrid (parent species native to Asia)

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and livestock

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with excellent soil drainage, as waterlogged conditions trigger root rot.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the crown sits slightly above the surrounding soil level.
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Apply a thin layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture, keeping the mulch several inches away from the main stems.

Pro Tip

Avoid shearing the hedge into tight, geometric boxes year-round, as this creates a dense outer shell that shades out the interior canopy and traps moisture. Instead, use selective heading cuts to open up the center of the plant, which improves air circulation and significantly reduces the incidence of Entomosporium leaf spot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune selectively in late spring or early summer after flowering to stimulate a fresh flush of red foliage.
Ensure adequate spacing between plants to maximize air movement and prevent fungal leaf diseases.
Water at the base of the plant using drip irrigation to keep the foliage dry.

Don't

Do not prune hard into old, leafless bare wood, as it fails to regenerate reliably.
Do not over-fertilize, as excess nitrogen produces succulent new growth that is highly susceptible to pests and diseases.
Do not plant in low-lying areas or heavy, poorly drained clay soils where water pools.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Privacy screensWindbreaksFormal or informal hedgesSpecimen plantings

Companion Plants

Ilex attenuata Camellia sasanqua Morella cerifera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Tip Photinia questions

What zones can Red Tip Photinia grow in?

Red Tip Photinia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red Tip Photinia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Red Tip Photinia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Red Tip Photinia bloom?

Red Tip Photinia typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Red Tip Photinia need full sun?

Red Tip Photinia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Red Tip Photinia drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Tip Photinia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.