Photinia x fraseri 'CAMILVY'

Fraser’s photinia is a popular shrub in countries and regions with milder winters. It is a hybrid between photinia glabra and photinia serratifolia. Red Robin was the first variety that came from this crossing, and after it proved huge commercial success, new selections have been introduced.

Camilvy is one of the new selections of Fraser´s photinia. It has darker red young leaves compared to Red Robinwhose leaves are more or less coppery red. They are large and glossy and turn very dark green in summer. They are evergreen and have wavy margins. In mid spring medium-sized panicles of creamy white flowers are produced. New leaves with red colour emerge at least twice a year: in early spring and in late summer, and you can bring the second phase forward by pruning the shrub in early summer just as the new leaves turn green.

In Southern Europe it is often grown as a hedge. Here in zones 6 and 7 we will find it a place sheltered from strong, drying winds in winter. It grows fast and can be pruned to achieve a more compact and denser habit. If it is damaged by harsh frost it always regenerates even from older wood. Prune it in early spring after danger of deep frost: March-April.

It needs moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil and mulching. Provide extra watering in hot summers and mainly in frost-free periods in the winter if the ground is not frozen. Hardy to about -23°C.

Last update 19-04-2011; 03-02-2012