Rhaphiolepis indica
Common Names: India hawthorn
Family: Rosaceae (rose Family)
Shrub Drought Tolerant Has evergreen foliage Flowers
Description
Indian hawthornes are compact evergreen shrubs that grow 3 to 5 feet
(1-1.5 m) in height eventually forming a mound that is about as wide
as high. The oblong leaves are thick and leathery with serrated
edges. They are dark green on top and lighter on bottom and 3-4 in
(8-10 cm) in length. Star shaped flowers are held at branch tips in
loose clusters and are white or light pink, with five petals, and
may be lightly fragrant. Flowers are followed by blue-black fruits
with 1 or 2 seeds and provide food for cedar waxwings and other
berry eating birds.
Indian hawthorn flowers
In early spring the Indian hawthorn smothers itself in flowers and
fresh young foliage.
Location
Rhaphiolepis indica is a native of Asia, especially India and
southern China.
Culture
Must have well drained soil whether in sun or part shade. Avoid
overhead irrigation, especially at night. Leaf spot, scale, and fire
blight may be problematic, but usually Indian hawthornes are quite
rugged given proper conditions. Oil sprays are not recommended.
Light: Sun to part shade
Moisture: Provide average moisture, this shrub is drought tolerant
once established.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 8-11
Propagation: Propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Indian hawthorn is perfect for low hedges and borders. It is slow
growing and requires little effort to maintain its shapely form.
Usage
Excellent shrub for foundation plantings and low hedges or borders.
Withstands some salt spray and can be used on the leeward side of
coastal houses. Indian hawthorn is often used in commercial
landscapes and urban plantings including highway medians and other
hot, sunny exposed situations.
Features
There are not many shrubs that can easily be kept under 3 ft (1 m)
and Indian hawthorn is one of the best. This robust plant is
evergreen, easy to grow, drought tolerant, with ornamental fruits
and flowers thrown in as a bonus. A great selection for low
maintenance plantings. |
