A smaller, refined photinia with glossy leaves and bright red new growth, more restrained than the fraseri hybrids. White spring flowers and a neat habit suit it to medium screening hedges.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 3 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Rubens Photinia
Botanically, Photinia glabra 'Rubens' is a fast-growing shrub in the Rosaceae family. It reaches around 3 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Rubens Photinia
Rubens Photinia suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Rubens Photinia does best in free-draining and clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 1.2 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Rubens Photinia does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Rubens Photinia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Rubens Photinia in the garden
Rubens Photinia earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
Combine Rubens Photinia with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Rubens Photinia
Plant Sale lists Rubens Photinia as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
