Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica)

It is an evergreen shrub that is grown in gardens across many parts of Australia for its resilience and hardiness. It is also chosen for its dense growth and attractive white or pink flowers, which bloom from spring through summer. The flowers are followed by blue-black berries, which can spread across the plant.

Native to southern China, it tolerates a wide range of conditions including sun, shade, coastal or wind-exposed positions. Grow it in a garden bed, as a hedge, informally mass-planted or in a container. It is happy to be clipped and shaped, and grows well on exposed balconies.

Plants have small, glossy green to bronze or copper-toned leaves, making them an ideal addition to any green space. There are a few varieties to consider, so check out your local hardware or garden centre for one to suit your location. Here are a few options:

• Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Snow Maiden’ is a small evergreen shrub with a compact upright habit to a 1 metre tall. It has glossy green foliage and white flowers appearing in winter and spring, and is ideal as a low hedge, in pots or as a feature plant.
• Rhaphiolepis ‘Oriental Pearl’ grows up to 1.5 metres tall. it is an evergreen shrub with small white flowers that sit in clusters at the end of its branches. It adds colour to a winter or spring garden or a pot.
• Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Little Bliss’ is a dwarf form growing to around 1 metre in height and width. It has stunning dainty, fragrant white and pink flowers in spring and summer, offset against shiny, dark, leathery green leaves with red-tipped fresh growth.
• Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Apple Blossom’ is ideal in most climates as it tolerates frost and dry conditions. As a neat, resilient, round shrub around a metre tall, it can be grown as a hedge or specimen plant in a garden or large container. It will add colour to a late-winter or spring garden with its abundant clusters of warm pink flowers and glossy evergreen foliage.

Growing conditions

Aspect Indian hawthorn needs a bright, sunny location with sun for all or most of the day. Those grown in more shaded conditions produce fewer flowers.

Soil These plants grow in a wide range of soils, but are best with moist soil. They are highly drought-tolerant once established. Dig in well-rotted compost or manure such as Seasol Super Compost and add Seasol Plant + Soil Booster as part of soil preparation.

Climate Indian hawthorn grows in a wide range of climates from temperate to subtropical. It can withstand light frost, but in colder climates, it’s best to plant in a sheltered location to protect it from prolonged frost exposure. 

General care

Watering Water regularly to encourage good growth and flowering, especially potted plants. Established plants in gardens are drought-hardy, but still appreciate occasional watering during dry spells, particularly in hot and windy weather.

Feeding and mulching Indian hawthorn responds well to feeding. Keep plants lush and flowering with a granular fertiliser such as PowerFeed with Troforte All Purpose including Natives during the growing season. If you prefer liquid feeding, apply PowerFeed All Purpose including Natives every 2 to 4 weeks during the growing season.

Mulch with organic mulch such as coarse pine bark or sugarcane mulch, depending on your garden’s style.

Pruning Prune plants after flowering to encourage dense, compact growth, keep hedges in shape, eliminate seeding and encourage repeat flowering.

Watch out These tough shrubs have few problems, but they can still be susceptible to some common issues. The most frequent problems include aphids, scale insects and fungal diseases like powdery mildew.