Last updated on December 14th, 2024 at 08:14 am
Red Tip Photinia (P. fraseri) – As the name suggests the tips of this plant are red almost year-round. It is an excellent evergreen hedge plant that is dense and grows quickly. It can be planted any time of the year. Great for blocking the neighbor’s view or as a privacy windbreak plant. If left alone they will grow up to 12 ft. tall and about 8 ft. wide.
Red Tip Photinias are good shrubs for landscaping, especially in the Southwest. They can tolerate the heat provided they receive ample water during the hot summer months. A good soaking every other day or about 5-6 gallons on a sprinkler system.
These plants will produce a large pale white flower during the spring seasons. They grow fast providing you water often. They are somewhat drought-tolerant plants as they need regular watering even after it has become well established.
You can reduce watering times after the fourth season of being planted. 15 minutes every other day during the hot summer months is good.
Red Tip Photinia as a hedge in the Southwest
For a nice-looking formal hedge, appearance prune the Red Tip Photinia during the winter season. Fertilize about 3 times per year. Once in spring, summer, and fall. It is a good border plant to keep neighbors away. Here is a post on – How to block neighbors’ view of my yard.
You can also use it as a stand-alone shrub place it where you have a space or hide unsightly utility boxes. It is a plant that can be planted at any time of the year.
The Photinia Flower
Problems with the Photinia plant?
It is susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and Privet mites. Use a good drip system to water the base of the plant. Avoid sprinkler watering from above. Water in the early morning hours will help water dry out before nightfall. Learn more about Powdery Mildew and Insects diseases on Plants.
At the first sign of powdery mildew or leaf spot, treat the affected plants with a fungicide. Apply it thoroughly, making sure to cover all the leaves, including the undersides. Repeat the application as directed on the product label until the symptoms disappear and the plant shows signs of recovery.
USDA zones 7-9
Here is another site with helpful information on Photinias.
You can also use this plant as a stand-alone shrub perfect for that corner space. it can be trimmed from the bottom and used as a small formal patio tree.
Other evergreen plants that do well in the Southwest.
