Photinia 'Redstart'

Also known as: Christmas berry 'Redstart'

The name photinia 'Redstart' perfectly sums up this plant's defining feature: bronze-red leaves that transform to a dark shade of green as the plant gets older. It's a Photinia cultivar that's much smaller than its ancestral plant, which can grow up to 15 meters. Photinia 'Redstart', impressively, grows up to 1 meter tall.

Scientific classification

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

3 m

Spread

Red, Green, Bronze

Leaf Color

White

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Care Guide for Photinia 'Redstart'

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: The photinia 'Redstart' is low maintenance and drought-resistant once mature, needing minimal water. Young plants or those in containers may require weekly watering, checking that the top 2 in of soil are dry. Water at ground level to prevent fungal issues.

Fertilize: Photinia 'Redstart' typically does not need fertilizing if the soil is nutrient-rich. However, applying all-purpose fertilizer twice yearly in spring and winter is advisable. Additionally, using potassium-rich fertilizer in late summer can boost photinia 'Redstart''s hardiness.

Pruning: Photinia 'Redstart' thrives with early to late winter pruning, focusing on removing dead branches and improving air circulation. Cutting back long stems encourages bushier growth, reduces disease risk, and enhances aesthetic appeal, ensuring a vibrant appearance throughout the growing season.

Propagation: Photinia 'Redstart' is easily propagated from summer cuttings. Take three 8 cm cuttings, remove lower leaves, and plant in a 10 cm pot with 4 cm of soil. Soak the pot for 30 minutes, cover with plastic, and place in the shade. Remove plastic after three weeks and maintain watering until ready to transplant in spring.

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