Frequently (and not so frequently) Asked Questions
BRIEF: Can Red Tip plants cause cancer?
QUESTION:
I'm purchasing a house that has several (25 - 30) large Red Tip plants in the
back yard. I have a friend that tells me she's heard that they cause cancer. Do
you know anything about this ? Or can you check around and get back to me?
ANSWER:
Cause cancer how? By looking at them? Smelling them?
If by Red Tip you mean Photinia fraseri, this hybrid bush is used all over as a
hedge. The worst thing that I have heard about it is that the smell of the flowers
is pretty obnoxious, so you will need some pruning shears. Since it is not a food
plant or herbal medicine, I am not sure if we know the effects of eating the
stuff. I will check other sources...