'Red Tip' Photinia
Photinia x fraseri
Flower: Large groupings of white flowers in
the spring. The flowers are fragrant and can be a little
overwhelming. Flowers are a very nice contrast to the foliage.
Size: Rapid growth to 20 feet in height and 12 feet in width. Most publications say 8-10 feet in height, but if left unpruned can easily grow to 20 feet. In the full sun 'Red Tip' Photinias have a tight growth habit with only the occasional tip pruning. Mostly used as a screening plant.
Foliage: Very shiny foliage with bright red new growth that fades to green after flowering. Evergreen with some winter leaf loss. Some pruning is required to growth near the base of the plant.
Hardiness Zones: 7-9
Light Requirement: Full sun to Partial-shade. Fuller and redder in the full sun.
Drought Tolerance: High, but additional summer watering will allow Photinia to continue to grow.
Notes: This variety has succumb to a fungal leaf spot disease that has lessened its use dramatically. This variety was once one of the staples of the nursery industry and is now almost never recommended. There are many plants left in the landscape that seem resistant to the fungal leaf spot so this plant may return and be a favorite again. Spring fertilizer and pruning is recommended.