Shrubs - Photinias

Space considerations are a must with Photinias

"Red Tip" is preferred by many gardeners because of the beautiful reddish color of new stems and foliage. Chinese and Fraser Photinia are more noted for the coppery-bronze color of new foliage, the masses of creamy white flowers, orange-red fruit, and the larger size reached at maturity.

In the South the range of plant material for landscape purposes is quite long. A visit to a garden center or nursery will open your eyes to the long list of shrubs and trees.

Among the shrubs, the photinias occupy a special place because of their growth habits, foliage color, texture, mature size, and adaptability to sun or partial shade. There are three major varieties or types of photinias. They are the Smooth or Red Tipped Photinia and the Chinese and Fraser Photinia.

Photinias are used in the landscape as specimen plants, tall hedges or screens, and around the foundations of large tall homes or buildings where there is adequate space for growth and development.

Purchase…

Photinia are usually purchased as container grown smaller plants and larger plants; as balled or burlapped plants. Either type plant can be successful, if correctly planted and maintained.

Amend the soil…

Too often gardeners fail to realize that when a shrub is planted it is for permanency. For permanency to be a reality, the soil should be thoroughly prepared and amended if the shrub is to grow, develop and be effective for many years.

Plant…

Large holes two to three times as large as the root ball are essential. Be sure to set the plant no deeper than it grew in the nursery. Complete the planting by making a ring or dish shaped depression at the drip line of the plant and spread 3 - 4 inches of leaves, pine straw, or hay as a mulch. The ring or dish shaped depression and the mulch will facilitate better utilization of rains or water from your hose.

Photinias are large growing plants. Space them 5 - 6 feet apart for screening and hedges. Before purchasing photinias check around to see how they develop and very importantly their size after a few years of growth. This will give you a clue as to whether or not photinias are the landscape plant for you.

For more information on photinias, contact your local County Extension Office.