How to Grow Red Robin Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Red robin tree is a flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. The plant has reddish-brown bark and dark green leaves. The flowers are small and white. The plant blooms in early summer.

How to Grow Red Robin Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • American cranberrybush
  • American cranberry
  • Cranberry
  • Dogberry
  • Sumac

Good to Know

  • Red robin trees are deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the fall.
  • They are native to North America and Europe.
  • The scientific name for the red robin tree is Ericales, which includes the plant family Ericaceae.
  • The red robin tree is also known as the American cranberry bush, European cranberry bush, and the English holly.
  • The leaves of the red robin tree are alternate, simple, and have toothed margins.
  • The flowers of the red robin tree are white, urn-shaped, and grow in clusters.
  • The fruit of the red robin tree is a red berry that is poisonous to humans but is a favorite food of birds.
  • The wood of the red robin tree is hard and dense, making it valuable for furniture and flooring.
  • The red robin tree can live for over 100 years.
  • The red robin tree is the state tree of Rhode Island.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge

Planting Process

  1. For red robin tree, first step is to select a sunny spot in your garden with well- drained soil.
  2. Then, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
  3. Place the tree in the hole and fill it with soil, tamping it down as you go.
  4. Water the tree deeply and regularly for the first growing season.
  5. Fertilize the tree in early spring and again in mid-summer.
  6. Prune the tree as needed to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.
  7. Monitor the tree for pests and diseases and take action as needed.
  8. Mulch around the tree to help keep the roots cool and moist.
  9. When the tree is mature, it will produce small, red berries that are attractive to birds. Enjoy watching them visit your garden!

Related plant:
Laburnum Anagyroides

Soil Condition

About soil condition, The Red Robin tree grows best in moist to average, well-drained soils, although it is somewhat tolerant of seasonally wet sites and heavy, clay soils. It also does well in sandy soils. This tree has a fast growth rate and is relatively short-lived (30 to 40 years).

Light requirement

So, like the other trees, the red robin tree needs sunlight in order to grow and thrive. This tree prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial sun. When choosing a spot to plant your red robin tree, make sure that it will have plenty of sunlight throughout the day.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition for a red robin tree is that it should be between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The tree will not do well in temperatures below 50 degrees or above 80 degrees. This is why the tree is typically found in warmer climates.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40-60%. The plant can tolerate lower humidity levels, but may become stressed. If the humidity level drops below 30%, the leaves may begin to turn brown and drop off.

Fertilizing

Mentioning fertilizer, this plant requires little attention in that department. A top-dressing of compost in spring is really all that is needed, though a little organic fertilizer can be used if desired. As for the roots, they are relatively shallow and spread out, so be careful not to damage them when tilling or working in the area.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important step in the care of a red robin tree. It helps to maintain the tree's shape and encourages new growth. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or diseased branches. Also, remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

The Propagation

Propagation is typically done through rooting stem cuttings taken from the desired plant. The cuttings should be taken from new growth that is still soft and flexible. Once the cuttings are taken, they can be placed in a rooting medium, such as perlite, vermiculite, or sand. The cuttings should then be kept moist and in a location with indirect light until roots have formed and new growth appears.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is rapid during the first 10 years, when the tree may add 3 to 5 feet of height per year. The growth rate then slows considerably, and may add only 1 to 2 feet of height during the next 10 to 20 years. Red robin tree growth is more rapid when the tree is young and when growing conditions are favorable.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. These problems can be treated with fungicides, but it is important to catch them early. Pruning out affected leaves and branches can also help.

Tips on Growing

  • If you live in an area with cold winters, plant your red robin tree in a pot so that you can bring it indoors during the winter months.
  • Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the tree’s root ball.
  • Use a well-draining potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite.
  • Water your red robin tree regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
  • Feed your tree with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants every few weeks during the growing season.
  • Place your tree in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
  • Prune your red robin tree as needed to remove any dead or damaged branches.
  • If your tree is grown in a pot, repot it every two to three years into a slightly larger pot.
  • Check your tree regularly for signs of

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Source:
Robinia pseudoacacia - North Carolina State University
redblacktrees - Loyola Marymount University
AMERICAN ROBIN | The Texas Breeding Bird Atlas

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Trees Category