Tropical-like Photinia serratifolia (Chinese Hawthorn), wanted to try my NC zone 7b/8a Mountain to the Sea/Tropical garden, plus a link to a daphniphyllum-like photinia variety for those interested.

March 22, 2025

There is a 40+yr old specimen of Photinia serratifolia growing near my home that has over-stimulated my 'plant addiction receptors.' The specimen pictured below is growing under oaks in very open light shade with limited full sun exposure. Serratifolia is nothing like the dreaded Red-tip photinia (Photinia x fraseri) that is particularly susceptible to Entomosporium leaf spot disease. P. serratifolia has survived the test of time while nearby red tips were decimated. Serratifolia forms a medium to large tree has a topical/rain forest look similar to that of an oversized rhododendron-loquat hybrid with less showy flowers but a more impressive spring flush.

I've heard that P. serratifolia is difficult to propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken from mature trees, but may be easier when cuttings are taken from actively growing juveniles. Some cite a 25% survival rate from cuttings in general, this and it's size at maturity may explain the lack of interest among US growers. Any suggestions here would be appreciated.

In my extensive search I also came across an interesting variety (or sub-species?) that is native to Taiwan named Photinia serratifolia var. daphniphylloides whose foliage and open habit of course resembles Daphniphyllum macropodum but I find no mention of it in the trade. Does anyone know this plant? https://www.gbif.org/species/5364030

I'm looking for the straight species of P. serratifolia but will consider a cultivar like Green Giant. US growers seem to be non-existent while there is more interest in the UK and Western Europe where growers routinely offer this plant.

Pictures below taken March 20, 2025 in early-stage spring-flush.