Photinia fraseri ‘Red Robin’ (NL) – Fiery Foliage for All-Year Interest

The Photinia fraseri ‘Red Robin’ (NL) is a striking evergreen shrub, highly valued for its vibrant new foliage and year-round structure. Its young leaves emerge a fiery scarlet red in spring, before maturing to glossy green, creating a bold contrast that adds drama to the garden. Compact yet vigorous, this shrub works beautifully as hedging, screening, or as a standalone feature plant in beds, borders, or containers.

Hardy, adaptable, and easy to grow, ‘Red Robin (NL)’ is a versatile choice for gardeners looking to combine ornamental appeal with low maintenance. It’s a true classic that guarantees colour and structure all year long.

General Information

This improved form of Photinia is a cross between Photinia glabra and Photinia serratifolia, bred to enhance colour and resilience.

• Habit: Upright, bushy, evergreen shrub with dense branching.

• Height & spread: Typically grows 3–4m tall and 2–3m wide, but can be pruned to maintain smaller sizes.

• Foliage: Young leaves flush a vivid scarlet red, fading to a deep glossy green as they mature. New red growth can be encouraged by pruning.

• Flowers: Clusters of small, creamy-white flowers appear in late spring on untrimmed plants, sometimes followed by red berries in autumn.

• Position: Best in full sun or light shade; stronger red colouring develops in sunny sites.

• Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil preferred; tolerates clay and chalk if not waterlogged.

• Hardiness: Fully hardy in Northern Europe (NL = Dutch-grown stock).

• Uses: Excellent for hedging, privacy screens, specimen planting, or containers.

Its Dutch-grown (NL) form ensures strong quality plants bred for reliability and consistent performance.

Care Guide

Photinia fraseri ‘Red Robin’ (NL) is straightforward to grow, needing just a little seasonal attention to look its best.

Planting

• When to plant: Spring or autumn are ideal planting times, though container plants can be planted all year round if soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

• Depth & spacing: Plant at the same depth as in the pot. For hedging, space 75–100cm apart.

• Preparation: Improve soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

Watering & Feeding

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots.

• Once mature, it is fairly drought-tolerant but benefits from watering in prolonged dry spells.

• Feed with a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring to support fresh, colourful growth.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Lightly trim in spring or early summer to encourage a flush of bright red new leaves.

• For hedges, prune annually after flowering to maintain a dense, bushy shape.

• Avoid cutting back into old wood; always prune back to leafy stems.

• Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in early spring.

• Mulch around the base with bark or compost in spring to conserve moisture and enrich soil.

Protection

• Fully hardy in most conditions, including Dutch and Northern European climates.

• May develop leaf spot in very damp or humid weather – ensure good airflow and avoid overcrowding.

• Shelter from strong winds, which can damage tender young shoots.

Why Choose Photinia fraseri ‘Red Robin’ (NL)?

This iconic evergreen shrub combines vibrant colour with practicality, making it a staple for gardens across Europe.

• Fiery red foliage: Striking new shoots bring seasonal drama.

• Year-round structure: Evergreen leaves keep gardens colourful even in winter.

• Versatile use: Perfect as hedging, screening, or a feature plant.

• Low-maintenance: Hardy, reliable, and easy to care for.

• Wildlife value: Flowers attract pollinators, and berries provide food for birds.

• High-quality Dutch stock: Grown in the Netherlands for strong, healthy plants.

The Photinia fraseri ‘Red Robin’ (NL) is a garden favourite, combining fiery spring foliage with reliable evergreen structure. Whether planted as a vibrant hedge, a bold specimen, or in a container for patio drama, it brings colour, interest, and resilience to any outdoor space.

• Size
  30-40

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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