Indian Hawthorn

Rhaphiolepis indica

Light

Water

Moderate water in Phoenix; irrigate deeply, then let the upper few inches of soil dry. Water more frequently during establishment and extreme summer heat; avoid overhead watering.

Size

3-5 ft tall × 4-5 ft wide

Habit

Mounded – spreading shrub

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Description

A compact evergreen shrub with leathery, glossy leaves, clusters of delicate spring flowers, and small blue-black fruits; best in protected, irrigated locations in Phoenix.

Bloom Time

Spring

Deciduous / Evergreen

Evergreen

Special Features

Attracts Bees / Pollinators, Attracts Birds, Fragrant

Growth Rate

Slow to moderate

Growth Habit

Mounded – spreading shrub

Mature Size

3-5 ft tall × 4-5 ft wide

Flower Color

Pink to white

Foliage Color

Dark green

Landscape Use

Border / Bed, Container / Patio, Desert / Xeriscape, Foundation Planting, Hedge / Screen

Garden Style

Container / Patio, Desert / Xeriscape, Hedge / Formal, Pollinator / Wildlife

Soil

Alkaline Tolerant, Amended / Rich, Prefers Acidic, Well-Drained

Companion Plants

Dwarf pittosporum, Liriope, Society garlic, Star jasmine

Non-toxic

Care Instructions

Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal in Phoenix; avoid intense western exposure and reflected heat.

Water: Moderate water in Phoenix; irrigate deeply, then let the upper few inches of soil dry. Water more frequently during establishment and extreme summer heat; avoid overhead watering.

Soil: Well-drained soil enriched with compost; prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions but tolerates mild alkalinity. Avoid waterlogged soil.

Mature size: Typically 3–6 feet tall and wide; dwarf cultivars remain about 2–3 feet tall.

Bloom: Late winter through spring in Phoenix; occasional lighter repeat bloom depending on cultivar and conditions.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.

Growth rate: Slow to moderate.