Jocelyn - I think these have a reputation for being tricky if conditions aren't right for them. They seem to need good, free draining soil and a reasonably sheltered position if possible, and a decent amount of sun to do their best. In a pot, they're like most plants and need more attention - replacing some of the soil each spring and making sure they have adequate food and water. It may well need to be potted on too - the roots might be restricted.
You might be best to start a new thread and if you can add a pic of the shrub that will help with more advice too.
It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
I planted a photinia hedge for privacy. It has to cover the second story of a mega house next door so I keep it at that height. Problem all growth is on upper 5 feet the lower 8 feet is pretty bare.Do I just plant some other shrubs along bottom ? Do not want to fertilize causing height pruning 3 times a year .
Have you got a photo Annie? It will depend on the room and conditions below, and in front of, the hedge as to what might grow there. The hedge will take up a lot of moisture and nutrients from the soil, so you may need to beef it up and fertilise to get something growing well.
It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
I am in Northern California if that makes a difference and am not a photinia grower but look out on this photinia tree from my kitchen widow. The tree is easily 30 feet high and has always amazed me with its leaves and especially its blossoms. What I am curious about is the tip of the branch or shoot at the far end. It looks like a candelabra to me but I want to hear some terminology for what is going on here?
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Jocelyn - I think these have a reputation for being tricky if conditions aren't right for them. They seem to need good, free draining soil and a reasonably sheltered position if possible, and a decent amount of sun to do their best. In a pot, they're like most plants and need more attention - replacing some of the soil each spring and making sure they have adequate food and water. It may well need to be potted on too - the roots might be restricted.
You might be best to start a new thread and if you can add a pic of the shrub that will help with more advice too.
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
I hacked mine down to a stump to remove it after it did not perk up ( see above) it is now 3' tall and lovely and red
Threats of violence are often the best way KEF....
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
I have so often found that to be true Fairy
I'm speaking my best speak 
It will depend on the room and conditions below, and in front of, the hedge as to what might grow there. The hedge will take up a lot of moisture and nutrients from the soil, so you may need to beef it up and fertilise to get something growing well.
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...