Photinia glabra aka Japanese Photinia

Photinia glabra, or Japanese photinia, belongs to the rose family. It is an evergreen shrub that can become a small tree. Its native range spans southern China and northern Indo-China. It also grows wild in central and southern Japan. It occurs on hills, slopes, and in mixed forests. Its bronze-red new leaves add colour before they turn green.

Garden size varies between the sources. Oregon State lists heights of 8–12 feet [2.4–3.7 metres]. RHS gives a garden range of 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. NC State lists 10–20 feet [3–6.1 metres]. RHS also notes plants can reach about 20 feet [6 metres]. Spread ranges from 6–13 feet [1.8–4 metres] across the sources. The plant grows fast, with an upright, loose, rounded form. Its stout stems are greenish brown, and its bark is smooth.

The leaves grow alternately along the stems and have no hairs. Each leaf is simple, leathery, and oval or broader near its tip. Small teeth line the edges of the pointed leaves. Mature leaves shine dark green and measure about two to three inches. They have eight to fourteen pairs of side veins. Reddish buds remain visible through much of the year. Small white flowers open in late spring at shoot tips. Some flowers have a pink tint, and their smell can offend. The clusters measure about two to four inches across. Small, round pomes turn red, then black, with fruit display in autumn.

Grow this shrub in sun or partial shade. RHS favours fertile soil rich in humus, with good drainage. It accepts clay, loam, and sand. RHS lists acid or neutral soil; NC State also reports alkaline tolerance. The plant tolerates drought but does not tolerate wet ground. NC State lists USDA zones 7–11; Oregon State favours zone 8, with 7 marginal. RHS rates it H4. Gardens use it for hedges, screens, and informal planting. Summer semi-hardwood cuttings provide a way to raise new plants.

RHS reports few pests, but several diseases can affect it. These include leaf spot, fireblight, honey fungus, and powdery mildew. PFAF records dried fruit as edible and notes traditional medicinal uses. It also records hard, heavy wood used for furniture and small items. However, RHS warns against eating the fruit, including for pets. These conflicting reports do not establish that the fruit is safe.