Species

Rhaphiolepis indicaIndian Hawthorn

7 other cultivars

shrub

Indian Hawthorn

Rhaphiolepis indica 'Cosmic White'

The Story

Plant Bio

Rhaphiolepis indica is an evergreen shrub native to southern China and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated for its dense growth and leathery foliage. The species produces clusters of small flowers followed by dark, bird-dispersed fruits that can lead to naturalization in warm, humid climates.

'Cosmic White' is a sterile, low-fertility cultivar selected for its large, crisp white flowers and superior resistance to leaf spot. This selection forms a rounded mound of glossy dark green foliage with bronze-toned new growth, producing virtually no viable seed to prevent environmental spread.

Uses & Benefits:

Offers year-round structure with glossy evergreen foliage, bronze new growth, and a heavy flush of large, crisp white flowers in spring.

Highly tolerant of salt spray, wind, and drought, making it an exceptionally durable choice for coastal and low-maintenance landscapes.

Provides cover for small birds and supports general pollinating insects, while its low-seed sterile nature prevents invasive spread into native habitats.

SpeciesRhaphiolepis indicaIndian Hawthorn

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60"

Width

60"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Summer

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to light shade with highly permeable, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the crown sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to prevent rot.
Water deeply at the base during the first growing season to establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.
Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to support the main flowering flush.

Pro Tip

Avoid overhead sprinkler irrigation to prevent fungal leaf spot, and never prune hard into old, leafless wood as it will fail to regenerate.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water at the soil level rather than from overhead to keep the foliage dry.
Prune lightly immediately after the spring flowering flush to maintain a dense, rounded shape.
Ensure excellent soil drainage by amending heavy soils or planting on a slight mound.

Don't

Do not plant in low-lying areas or heavy, poorly drained clay where water pools.
Do not prune hard into old, bare wood that lacks active leaves.
Do not overwater once established, as this species is highly drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot.

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

Low-maintenance foundation plantingsSalt-tolerant coastal hedgesMassed bank plantings for erosion controlFormal or informal garden borders

Companion Plants

Liriope muscari Rosmarinus officinalis Nandina domestica Loropetalum chinense

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 spring through summer. 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.