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Description
Rhaphiolepis Indica, commonly known as Indian hawthorn, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to southern China, Taiwan, and India. It is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its attractive flowers and foliage. The plant has a rounded form and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The leaves are leathery, glossy, and dark green, with a serrated edge. The flowers are small and pink or white, and they bloom in clusters from late winter to early spring. The fruit is a small, dark red or black berry that is not edible.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rhaphiolepis |
Appearance
Indian hawthorn has a dense, bushy growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. The leaves are leathery, glossy, and dark green, with a serrated edge. The flowers are small and pink or white, and they bloom in clusters from late winter to early spring. The fruit is a small, dark red or black berry that is not edible. Indian hawthorn is a slow-growing plant that can live for several decades with proper care.
Care Guide
Indian hawthorn is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your Indian hawthorn healthy:- Water: Indian hawthorn prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water your plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months.- Fertilization: Indian hawthorn does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Indian hawthorn grows best in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Indian hawthorn prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.- Hardiness Zones: Indian hawthorn is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Indian hawthorn is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following issues:- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.- Scale insects: These small, oval insects can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control infestations.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control infestations.
Habitat
Indian hawthorn is native to southern China, Taiwan, and India. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and rocky cliffs. In cultivation, Indian hawthorn is commonly grown in gardens, parks, and as a hedge plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Indian hawthorn tolerate drought?
A: Indian hawthorn prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought once established.Q: Does Indian hawthorn attract bees?
A: Yes, the flowers of Indian hawthorn attract bees and other pollinators.Q: Can Indian hawthorn be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Indian hawthorn can be grown in containers as long as the pot has good drainage and the soil is kept moist.Q: When is the best time to prune Indian hawthorn?
A: Indian hawthorn can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Indian hawthorn:- Rhaphiolepis umbellata (Yeddo hawthorn)- Rhaphiolepis x delacourii (Pink Lady hawthorn)- Photinia x fraseri (Red tip photinia)- Pyracantha coccinea (Scarlet firethorn)
References
– “Rhaphiolepis Indica.” Floridata, https://floridata.com/plant/780.- “Indian Hawthorn.” Clemson Cooperative Extension, https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/indian-hawthorn/.- “Rhaphiolepis Indica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c804.
