Pollination Information for Pink Marble Photinia (Photinia x fraseri 'Cassini')

The Pink Marble Photinia is a hybrid plant resulting from a cross between the Photinia glabra and the Photinia serratifolia. Although the plant can self-pollinate and produce its own seeds, it relies on cross-pollination for genetic diversity and more fruitful fruit production.

The Pink Marble Photinia flowers between May and June, producing small, white, fragrant inflorescences in clusters. The flowers attract various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which transfer pollen grains from the anthers to the stigma of the same or different flowers.

The Pink Marble Photinia requires at least two different varieties for cross-pollination, which ensures that pollen from different plants is transferred to increase genetic diversity and fruit yield. It can be planted with other Photinia varieties, such as Red Robin or Little Red Robin, or other compatible plants that bloom at the same time, such as Lilac or Dogwood.

Care should be taken to ensure that the Pink Marble Photinia is not planted in isolation, as that may limit pollination and fruit production. It needs full sun to partial shade exposure, well-drained soil, and regular watering to thrive and produce the desired fruit.

In summary, the Pink Marble Photinia is a hybrid plant that requires cross-pollination for increased genetic diversity and fruit yield. It can self-pollinate, but cross-pollination between different Photinia varieties or compatible plants is preferred.

Pink Marble Photinia (Photinia x fraseri 'Cassini') FAQ

General Information

• What is Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia, also known as Photinia x fraseri 'Cassini', is a shrub with variegated leaves that are green with pink and white markings.
• What is the size of a Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide.
• What is the hardiness zone for Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia is hardy in zones 7-9.

Planting and Care

• How do I plant Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia should be planted in a location with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.
• How often should I water Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• What is the best fertilizer for Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia benefits from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring.
• How do I prune Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia can be pruned in early spring to control its size and shape. Avoid pruning in fall as this can stimulate new growth that may not have a chance to harden off before winter.

Common Problems

• What pests and diseases affect Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia can be susceptible to fungal leaf spots, powdery mildew, and fire blight. It can also be affected by scale insects and spider mites.
• How can I treat fungal leaf spots? Fungal leaf spots can be treated with a fungicide and by avoiding overhead watering.
• How can I treat powdery mildew? Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide and by improving air circulation around the plant.
• How can I treat fire blight? Fire blight can be treated by pruning affected branches and avoiding overhead watering.
• How can I control scale insects and spider mites? Scale insects and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Propagation

• How do I propagate Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia can be propagated by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in summer and rooting them in well-draining soil.

Additional Information

• Is Pink Marble Photinia deer-resistant? Pink Marble Photinia is not typically deer-resistant.
• What are some companion plants for Pink Marble Photinia? Pink Marble Photinia pairs well with other shrubs such as azaleas, camelias, and gardenias.

Planting & Care for Pink Marble Photinia:

Planting:

1. Choose a location with well-drained soil and full to partial sun.
2. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
3. Plant the Pink Marble Photinia in the hole and backfill with soil.
4. Water thoroughly.
5. Add a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Care:

1. Water the Pink Marble Photinia regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
2. Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
3. Prune in the late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any damaged or dead growth.
4. Protect from frost and extreme weather conditions.
5. Inspect regularly for pests and diseases, and treat promptly if necessary.