Photinia x fraseri 'LITTLE RED ROBIN'

Some time ago crossing of two species of photina resulted in an extremely successful and attractive plant: Fraser photinia. It is called Red Robin and in countries with mild winters it is one of the top favourites for evergreen hedges. But now we are introducing a new plant which, though based on this invention, means a step ahead: Red Robin’s little brother. Its name is, surpisingly, Little Red Robin.

This photinia is a dwarf variety of Red Robin. It has all its beautiful features but the size. The evergreen leaves are obovate to ovate, pointed and glossy, about 4-6 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. When they emerge they are vivid burgundy red, grading to coppery red as they mature, and deep green later. They come out in irregular phases several times a year so the plant always carries a portion of red new foliage. From autumn until spring the leaves may show darker spots which are reaction to colder weather and do not manifest an illness.

Its main advantage is definitely the reduced size so it will fit in even the smallest of gardens. It grows compact and dense, no need to prune it. Being a dwarf variety of a more tender evergreen plant it offers higher hardiness, which in regions with regular amount of winter snow is even increased because snow coverage works as an excellent isolation against the worst frosts.

Photinia needs fertile, well-drained soil that will not be too clay or too alkaline. Hardy to about -18°C (USDA zone 6b), or -20°C with protection (fir branches, white woven or simply snow).

Last update 17-12-2008; 16-10-2019