Rhaphiolepis indica aka Indian Hawthorn
Taxonomy
Rhaphiolepis indica, also known as Indian hawthorn, Hong Kong hawthorn, or India hawthorn, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This slow-growing shrub is easy to care for and maintains a neat, rounded shape without the need for pruning. The plant produces large, loose clusters of fragrant, pink or white flowers in spring, which become a focal point. After the flowers, small blue berries appear, which attract wildlife. However, Indian Hawthorn is invasive in Queensland and is frequently damaged by deer. Additionally, it has pest and disease problems. Despite these challenges, Indian Hawthorn is a popular choice for sunny locations due to its year-round attractive appearance.
Common names
Indian Hawthorn, India Hawthorn, Snow MaidenHow to care for Indian Hawthorn
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Indian Hawthorn, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Indian Hawthorn should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Indian Hawthorn loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Indian Hawthorn requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your India Hawthorn is always in the right place to thrive.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Region of origin
Indian Hawthorn’s native range is E. Asia - S. China from Yunnan eastwards.
More info:
Wikipedia
