Indian Hawthorn

Key Characteristics:

• Growth Habit: Dense, rounded shrub with a slow to moderate growth rate.
• Height & Width: Ranges from 1–3 meters tall and 1–2 meters wide, depending on the variety.
• Leaves: Dark green, leathery, and glossy, often with a slightly serrated edge.
• Flowers: Clusters of white or pink flowers in spring and summer.
• Fruit: Small, blue to black berries that attract birds.
• Drought & Heat Tolerance: Extremely hardy, thriving in low-water conditions.

Popular Varieties:

1. Rhaphiolepis indica (Indian Hawthorn)
   • Medium-sized shrub (1–2m) with white or pink flowers.
   • Great for low hedges, pots, and coastal gardens.
2. Rhaphiolepis rosiflora (Hot Tips)
   • More compact evergreen shrub.
   • Bronze red new growth, glossy green foliage
   • Masses of white to pink flowers.
3. Rhaphiolepis ‘Snow Maiden’
   • Smaller, compact variety (up to 1m tall) with pure white flowers.
   • Perfect for low borders and pots.
4. Rhaphiolepis ‘Springtime’
   • Features deep pink flowers and dense foliage.
   • Excellent for formal hedging and screening.

Growing Conditions & Care:

• Light: Prefers full sun to part shade.
• Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
• Watering: Drought-tolerant once established; water regularly during the first year.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; trim after flowering to maintain shape.
• Fertilizing: Use a slow-release fertilizer in spring for best growth.
• Pests & Diseases: Resistant to most pests but may be affected by entomosporium leaf spot in humid conditions—ensure good air circulation.

Uses in Landscaping:

Hedging & Screening – Forms neat, low-maintenance hedges.
Coastal & Drought-Tolerant Gardens – Handles salty air and dry conditions.
Container Planting – Compact varieties work well in pots.
Bird & Pollinator Attraction – Flowers attract bees, and berries provide food for birds.
Formal & Informal Gardens – Versatile for structured or naturalistic plantings.

Why Choose Rhaphiolepis for Melbourne Gardens?

• Thrives in Melbourne’s variable climate (cold winters, hot summers).
• Handles coastal and urban conditions (heat, salt, pollution).
• Requires little maintenance (minimal pruning, low water needs).