Plant Calculator
Enter the approximate length and width of the area you will be planting and click 'Calculate' to determine how many Photinia x fraseri you will need.
*Correct and successful spacing is complex and depends on project conditions.
Photinia x fraseri
Photinia x fraseri
- Large screen
- Large hedge
- Tough & durable
- Category: Trees & Shrubs
- Hardiness Zone: 7a
- Height: 10-15 Feet
- Spread: 10-15 Feet
- Spacing: 4-6 feet
- Bloom Color: White
Photinia x fraseri, commonly known as Red Tip Photinia, is an evergreen shrub widely used for hedging and screening due to its dense habit and striking red new growth. Fresh foliage emerges bright red before maturing to glossy dark green, providing strong seasonal color contrast. Though not a Texas native, it has long been used in Texas landscapes where conditions are appropriate.
In Texas, Photinia fraseri must be planted in open, sunny locations with good air circulation to perform well long term. While newer selections show improved resistance to leaf spot, shaded or poorly ventilated sites still greatly increase disease pressure. It prefers well-drained soils and adapts to slightly acidic to neutral soils, tolerating mild alkalinity if drainage is adequate. Consistently wet soils should be avoided.
Irrigation method is especially important for Photinia. Drip irrigation is strongly preferred over overhead sprinklers, as wet foliage encourages fungal leaf spot. Water should be applied at the root zone and allowed to dry between cycles once plants are established. Full sun not only improves color and density but also helps foliage dry quickly after rain or irrigation, reducing disease issues.
Photinia fraseri is commonly used as a tall hedge, privacy screen, or large foundation shrub. Mature size typically ranges from 10–15 feet tall and wide, though it can be maintained smaller with pruning. Spacing plants 4–6 feet apart creates a dense hedge. It is considered moderately deer tolerant and is non-toxic, though sap may cause mild skin irritation for sensitive individuals. In Central Texas, occasional winter leaf burn may occur during hard freezes, but plants usually recover well in spring.
Exposure
| • | Full Sun to Part Shade |
Habit
| • | Evergreen |
Soil pH Preference
| • | Acidic |
Deer Tolerance
| • | Low |
Water Needs
| • | Low |