Photinia davidiana (Stranvaesia davidiana) David's photinia, Chinese stranvaesia

David's photinia / Chinese stranvaeasia is an evergreen shrub whose close relative is a garden hybrid photinia Red Robin. It comes from China and Vietnam and has better cold resistance and narrower leaves. They are deep green and glossy but emerge dark burgundy red in the spring. Before autumn some portion of older foliage inside the plant gains bright carmine red and orange colour. In the autumn the leaves at tips of the branches turn deep burgundy red again.

The natural shape of Chinese photinia is rather prostrate with long, slightly arching branches. To maintain a dense shrub we recommend pruning it every year in mid spring. Grow it in full sun. It likes acidic, moist but well drained soil with high contents of organic matter. Mulching provides consistent moisture throughout the year and is necessary in colder areas. Watering is a must before and during winter unless the soil is frozen. Very hardy to min. -23°C (USDA zone 6), in protected areas to -27°C (zone 5).

Last update 29-10-2009; 12-03-2011