Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Clara'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Low to Moderate
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Long-lived shrub
Native To
Southern China
Toxicity
Non-toxic.
The Story
Plant Bio
Rhaphiolepis indica is a slow-growing, mounding evergreen shrub with thick, leathery leaves. It is valued for its compact habit and clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers in spring. 'Clara' is a popular cultivar noted for its neat, rounded form, glossy green foliage, and profuse bloom of pure white flowers. It also exhibits good resistance to Entomosporium leaf spot.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a location with full sun for best flowering
- Ensure the soil is well-drained
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the plant's container
- Set the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above soil level
- Backfill the hole and water deeply to settle the soil
- Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds
Pro Tip
Plant in a location with good air circulation to further minimize the risk of fungal leaf spot, a common issue for the species.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for the densest growth and most flowers.
- Water regularly until established, then it becomes drought tolerant.
- Choose a disease-resistant cultivar like 'Clara'.
- Prune lightly after blooming to maintain its compact shape.
Don't
- Do not plant in heavy, poorly drained soil.
- Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal diseases.
- Do not shear into a tight shape; it looks best when allowed a natural form.
- Don't plant susceptible varieties in humid, shady areas with poor air flow.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Indian Hawthorn questions
What zones can Indian Hawthorn grow in?
Indian Hawthorn is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Indian Hawthorn deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Indian Hawthorn, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Indian Hawthorn bloom?
Indian Hawthorn typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Indian Hawthorn need full sun?
Indian Hawthorn does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Indian Hawthorn drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Indian Hawthorn handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Indian Hawthorn with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
