Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
FoliageGreen leaves with red new growth (evergreen)
PositionFull sun to part shade
SoilPrefers acidic to neutral soil
Description
Photinia × fraseri ‘Red Robin’ makes an attractive hedge with bright red new growth providing striking contrast to the mature glossy green foliage. In addition, ‘Red Robin’ is evergreen and produces attractive ivory white flowers in April–May, making it a great hedging choice for year-round interest.
This evergreen Photinia is easy to look after and will grow well in partial shade or full sun when given a well drained soil. Requiring little pruning, it does take well to heavy pruning if you wish to maintain a particular shape. It is not dense so there are better choices if security is your main concern.
AKA Red Robin tree, Christmas berry tree
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
