Indian Hawthorn

(Rhaphiolepis indica)

Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Rhaphiolepis indica, commonly known as Indian Hawthorn, is an evergreen shrub native to forest margins, open woodlands, and coastal regions of Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Japan. It typically grows to a modest size of 4 meters in height and width, with a dense, rounded form. The branches are purple-brown when young, turning to a greyish-brown in maturity. Indian Hawthorn blooms in spring, producing clusters of fragrant, pink or white flowers that are quite showy, followed by dark blue, berry-like fruits that are edible when cooked.

This shrub is valued for its low maintenance, drought tolerance, and the ability to withstand salt spray, making it ideal for coastal landscapes. It is widely used in urban settings, residential gardens, and as a foundation plant, often pruned into hedges or topiary forms. Indian Hawthorn thrives in full sun to part shade, prefers well-drained soils, and is tolerant of a range of soil types, from acidic to alkaline. It is susceptible to Entomosporium leaf spot, which can be a significant problem in humid climates. Regular pruning to improve air circulation can help prevent this disease. Despite its susceptibility to leaf spot, its resilience and ornamental qualities make it a popular choice for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Forest margins, open woodlands, and coastal regions of Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Japan

Other Names

Common Names: India Hawthorn , Hong Kong Hawthorn , Chinesischer Traubenapfel , Shi Ban Mu

Scientific Names: Rhaphiolepis indica , Raphiolepis indica , Rhaphiolepis delacourii , Rhaphiolepis impressivena , Rhaphiolepis rubra , Rhaphiolepis brevipetiolata , Rhaphiolepis gracilis , Rhaphiolepis rugosa , Rhaphiolepis parvibracteolata , Rhaphiolepis sinensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Rhaphiolepis indica (L.) Lindl.