Rhaphiolepis indica

Indian Hawthorne

Shrub

This medium evergreen shrub is dense and massive and dependable in shady areas. It can range from two to six feet or higher, with a spread as wide or wider than its height.

Temperature

Hardy to 10F.

Water requirements

Moderate to ample water, but likes to dry out between irrigations.

Sun

Open or part shade. Accepts full sun with ample water. May accept reflected sun if given afternoon shade.

Soil

Best with enriched garden soil and good drainage.

Maintenance

Periodic pruning after bloom if needed.

Disadvantages

Iron chlorosis. Leaf burn from intense or reflected sun or soil salts.

Bloom

Profuse pink blooms beginning in mid-March.

Fruit or Seeds

Sometimes produces a dark blue berry in late summer or fall, but not many.

Uses

Hedge or in shady areas.

Origin

Member of the Rosaceae family.

Cultivars

'Enchantress™' mounds to three feet high by five feet wide and has rose-pink flowers. 'White Enchantress' has white flowers. 'Springtime™' is a medium-growing shrub to four to six feet by as wide. 'Majestic Beauty' has distinctive bold foliage and can be used as a single- or multi-trunked tree that can grow to 25 feet in favorable locations. 'Ballerina' shown here is stays low, around two feet, and compact. Leaves take on a reddish tinge in winter.

Themes

Formal, Mediterranean.

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