Photinia x fraseri, commonly known as Red Tip Photinia or Fraser Photinia, is a fast growing evergreen shrub that’s widely used for hedging and screening. It’s especially valued for its flush of bright red new growth, which creates a strong contrast against the mature green foliage.

The leaves emerge a vibrant red to bronze color, then gradually mature to a deep green. When new growth is coming in, the plant can take on a two toned look that adds movement and seasonal interest.

It naturally grows into a dense, upright shrub, making it a reliable option for privacy screens, property lines, or as a background plant. It can be kept more formal with regular trimming or allowed to grow a bit looser depending on the style.

Because of its fast growth rate, it’s often used when you need coverage quickly. It fills in well and creates a solid visual barrier over time.

Photinia grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well drained soil. It benefits from regular watering while establishing, then becomes more adaptable once mature.

It typically reaches about 10 to 15 feet tall and 6 to 10 feet wide, though it’s often maintained smaller as a hedge. It is well suited for USDA zones 7 through 10. The foliage is evergreen.

This plant has low toxicity and is generally a safe choice for gardens with pets and children.

The flowers may attract pollinators such as bees, though the white blooms are not always the main feature and can have a noticeable scent.

It is generally deer resistant, though occasional browsing may occur.

Photinia x fraseri fits especially well into Mediterranean, suburban, and formal garden designs, where it can be used for screening, hedging, and adding seasonal color.

It pairs well with plants like Ligustrum japonica ‘Texanum’ for a layered hedge effect, Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Silver Sheen’ to soften and lighten the backdrop, and Agapanthus orientalis to create a clean, repeatable base layer along the front.

Expert Tip:

I like to lightly prune this throughout the growing season to encourage that red new growth. That’s really the highlight of the plant, so staying on top of trimming helps keep that color showing instead of letting it fade into all green.

— Nick from Rooted Theory