Species

Rhaphiolepis indicaIndian Hawthorn

7 other cultivars

shrub

India Hawthorn

Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'

The Story

Plant Bio

Rhaphiolepis indica, the Indian hawthorn, is a dense evergreen shrub native to mainland Asia that forms a naturally rounded mound. The species is highly valued in warm climates for its leathery, dark green foliage and terminal clusters of star-shaped flowers that emerge in spring.

'Oriental Pearl' is a compact, low-growing cultivar that reaches only two to three feet in height and requires virtually no pruning to maintain its neat, domed shape. Its pure white flowers open from soft pink buds, contrasting against new foliage that emerges with a distinct bronze-copper tint.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round structure with glossy, deep green foliage, bronze new growth, and pure white spring blossoms.

Highly tolerant of salt spray and coastal winds, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice for coastal gardens.

Attracts bees, beneficial pollinators, and foraging birds, while offering nectar to early-season hummingbirds.

SpeciesRhaphiolepis indicaIndian Hawthorn

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

30"

Width

36"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

High tolerance

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mainland Asia (southern China)

Toxicity

Non-toxic (seeds contain minor cyanogenic glycosides if ingested in large quantities)

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to maximize flowering and foliage health.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the top of the root ball sits slightly above the surrounding soil level.
Backfill with native soil, firm gently, and water deeply to settle the roots without adding soil amendments.
Apply a two-inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stems to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Plant in baking full sun and use drip irrigation rather than overhead watering; keeping the foliage dry is the most effective way to prevent Entomosporium leaf spot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Plant in a location with excellent air circulation to minimize fungal leaf diseases.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring as new growth begins.

Don't

Do not use overhead sprinklers, as wet foliage highly encourages Entomosporium leaf spot.
Do not prune heavily into old, bare wood, which lacks active buds and recovers very slowly.
Do not plant in low-lying, poorly drained areas where water tends to collect.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Foundation PlantingHedgeMass PlantingBorder EdgingContainer Friendly

Companion Plants

Ilex glabra Lagerstroemia Rosmarinus officinalis Abelia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

India Hawthorn questions

What zones can India Hawthorn grow in?

India Hawthorn is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is India Hawthorn deer resistant?

Yes — India Hawthorn is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does India Hawthorn bloom?

India Hawthorn typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does India Hawthorn need full sun?

India Hawthorn does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is India Hawthorn drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), India Hawthorn handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.