Rhaphiolepis Rhaphiolepis x delacourii

Indian Hawthorn is a bushy, small, rounded evergreen shrub with leathery leaves that is moderately dense and rounded and grows up to 6.5'. The spring flowers are showy and are followed by purple-black fruits.

It prefers full sun in well-drained soils and is very drought and salt tolerant.

This plant is a hybrid of R. indica and R. umbellata. This is the most frequent Rhaphiolepis encountered in landscapes, many cultivars attributed to the hybrid are cited in trade as R. indica, which is distinguished by more tree-like growth form and larger serrate, acuminate leaves. Fruits of R. indica and the hybrid are similar, about 1/2 the size of R. umbellata. The fruits are ornamental and persist through winter but are often hard to see in the foliage. The habit is more open than R. umbellata and is highly susceptible to deer browsing. It does well in USDA hardy zones 7b-10. It is utilized in coastal plains in mass planting, foundation planting, in planters, and in protected areas in other zones.

This plant is tolerant to salt and shade. It is moderately drought tolerant and resistant to Phytophthora root rot but has pest and disease problems such as leaf spot, aphids, nematodes, and scale.  Plant varieties resistant to Entomosporium leaf spot.

This is an excellent coastal plant for a hedge, in shrub borders or foundations. Plant in a protected area from strong winds. Several cultivars are available.

Quick ID Hints:

• Growth is sympodial
• Pink/rose/white flowers are in an open terminal panicle
• Open evergreen shrub has leathery, reticulate leaves

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  This plant is often browsed by deer.