Japanese Photinia
Photinia glabrafam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 981A — Photinia glabra
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IOverview
Overview
Japanese Photinia, scientifically known as Photinia glabra and belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a shrub native to regions including China South-Central, Southeast, Japan, Myanmar, and Thailand. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 6 meters tall. Known for its edible fruit, Japanese Photinia is both ornamental and useful as a food source. One distinctive feature of this plant is its adaptability to various soil types, making it a versatile addition to gardens.
Quick answers
What is Japanese Photinia?
Japanese Photinia, scientifically known as Photinia glabra and belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a shrub native to regions including China South-Central, Southeast, Japan, Myanmar, and Thailand. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Japanese Photinia thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows up to 6 meters as a shrub. Propagate via seeds or cuttings. Fruit from this plant is edible but not commonly used for consumption.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Japanese Photinia for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Japanese Photinia in a sunny spot, ensuring well-draining soil and regular watering.
- 1
What you'll need
Japanese Photinia plants or seeds, potting mix, garden tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Japanese Photinia in spring or early fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a neutral pH. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots into your garden, spacing them 3-4 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide light shade if needed.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week during dry periods, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Japanese Photinia in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, using incorrect soil pH, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Japanese Photinia is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, it is consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. Skip
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native· 2 introduced
Asia5 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanMyanmarThailand
introduced (1)South Korea
Broader regions
introduced:Louisiana
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 981ae6ec-63ef-4e4d-a3f0-25863b19289d
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