Chinese Photinia Care

Stranvaesia davidiana, the Chinese photinia, is a species of shrub grown as an ornamental plant. Its flowers are white and grow in close clusters, followed by small pome fruits. It originated from east Asia and has been introduced to North America as a garden plant. It is sometimes known as Photinia davidiana.

Photinias are attractive, evergreen shrubs and small trees that make good specimen plants. Some varieties also make good hedging. Their name derives from the Greek word photeinos, which means shiny – they often have glossy leaves.

Found growing wild in China and Vietnam, Photinia davidiana is an attractive evergreen shrub, which makes a useful addition to the border. In midsummer it produces white flowers, followed by bright red fruit in autumn. The older leaves turn red before falling.

For best results grow Photinia davidiana in a sunny or partially shaded spot in moist but well-drained soil.