🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Photinia glabra is primarily used as an ornamental plant in permaculture systems, providing dense evergreen hedging, screening, and windbreaks. Its new growth offers a vibrant red color. While not commonly consumed, some sources suggest its berries are technically edible but not particularly palatable and should only be eaten in small quantities if at all. Not generally considered a significant source of food or medicine.
Botanical description
Photinia glabra is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the rose family (Rosaceae), native to Japan and other parts of Asia. It typically grows to a height of 10-15 feet, though can reach larger sizes under optimal conditions. The leaves are oblong to elliptic, glossy green, and 2-4 inches long. Young leaves emerge bright red, gradually turning green with age. It produces clusters of small, white flowers in spring, followed by small, red berries in the fall. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown. It is a relatively fast-growing species.
Companion planting
Photinia glabra generally has no strongly positive or negative companion planting associations. Its dense foliage may provide shelter for beneficial insects and birds. It can compete with neighboring plants for resources if planted too closely. Avoid planting near species that are highly susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot, as Photinia glabra can sometimes be affected.
Propagation methods
Propagation methods include seed sowing (though germination rates can be variable), stem cuttings (semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer are often successful), and layering. Grafting is also possible, though less common.
History and traditions
In its native Japan, Photinia glabra has been used in traditional gardens and landscaping for centuries, prized for its ornamental value and ease of cultivation. It was introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. There are no widely documented traditional medicinal uses.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in spring (April-May). The vibrant red new growth appears primarily in spring and sporadically throughout the growing season. Berries ripen in the fall (September-October). Pruning is best done after flowering to avoid removing flower buds. Planting can be done in spring or fall.