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 Maiden

How 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

To ensure optimal growth, the Indian Hawthorn prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

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