Osteomeles anthyllidifolia aka Hawai'i Hawthorn

Osteomeles anthyllidifolia is an evergreen shrub in the rose family, Rosaceae. It comes from Hawaii, according to the RHS. Its branches may grow upright or spread out. The RHS gives a garden height of 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. Its spread reaches about 3–5 feet [1–1.5 metres]. Virginia Tech describes a smaller plant, often 4 feet [1.2 metres] tall. That source records heights up to 10 feet [3 metres]. These accounts show that its size can vary between settings.

The bark is smooth and grey-brown, with clear lenticels. These marks stand out on the otherwise smooth surface. Young twigs are thin and red-brown, with a coat of hairs. The leaves grow alternately along the stems and stay year-round. Each leaf is pinnate, with 15–25 small leaflets. The leaflets range from oval to wider near the tip. They feel somewhat thick, with glossy green tops and paler undersides. This fine, divided foliage gives the shrub much of its character.

Small flower clusters form at the ends of the branches. Each cluster holds three to six flowers with five petals. Virginia Tech describes their colour as yellow to white. The RHS records white summer flowers with a light scent. Fruit follows the flowers and ranges from white to purple. Virginia Tech identifies the fruit as an edible pome. Young fruit has white hairs, which it loses as it develops. Its flesh may be white or purple. The evidence supports eating the fruit, but gives no broader safety assessment.

Grow this shrub in sun or partial shade. The RHS recommends fertile soil that stays moist but drains well. It accepts chalk, clay, loam, and sand. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. It also tolerates dry conditions once these occur. The RHS assigns it hardiness rating H5 for UK conditions. Its stated time to full size is five to ten years.

The RHS lists coastal gardens and informal planting among its uses. It also suggests ground cover and planting for strong shape. The evergreen leaves provide interest beyond the summer flower season. Routine pruning is not needed, according to the RHS. Growers can raise it from seed or semi-hardwood cuttings in early spring. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems.