A tough, compact rounded shrub with leathery dark leaves and clusters of starry white-to-pink flowers in spring, followed by blue-black berries. A reliable low coastal hedge needing little care.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1.2 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Indian Hawthorn
Botanically, Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Rosaceae family. It reaches around 1.2 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White and pink flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Indian Hawthorn
Indian Hawthorn suits warm-temperate, subtropical and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Indian Hawthorn does best in free-draining, loamy and sandy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 60 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Indian Hawthorn performs well with relatively little water once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Indian Hawthorn after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Once established, it is low maintenance.
Using Indian Hawthorn in the garden
Indian Hawthorn earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, a feature or specimen planting and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Indian Hawthorn with species that also favour low water use and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Indian Hawthorn
Plant Sale lists Indian Hawthorn as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
