How to Grow Indian Hawthorn Plant - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Indian hawthorn is an evergreen shrub that can grow to be anywhere from 2 to 6 feet tall. It has dark green leaves and white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring. The berries of the plant are black and contain seeds that are poisonous to humans. Indian hawthorn is native to Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States.

How to Grow Indian Hawthorn Plant - Plant Care & Tips

Alternative name

  • Indian Hawthorn
  • White Hawthorn
  • British Hawthorn
  • European Hawthorn
  • Common Hawthorn

Basic info

  • Indian hawthorn is a popular ornamental plant in many gardens.
  • It is a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
  • The berries are poisonous to humans but are enjoyed by birds.
  • Indian hawthorn can be used as a hedge plant.
  • It is tolerant of pollution and salt spray making it ideal for coastal gardens.
  • Indian hawthorn can be affected by a range of pests and diseases.
  • It is relatively drought tolerant once established.
  • Indian hawthorn can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
  • It prefers a sunny position but will tolerate some shade.
  • Indian hawthorn is a low maintenance plant that requires little pruning.

Planting Process

  1. For indian hawthorn , first step is to take a soil sample to your local cooperative extension office for testing. Hawthorn likes well-drained soils with a pH of 5 to
  2. Next, clear the planting area of all weeds and debris. You'll want to dig a hole that's twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
  3. Place the root ball in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure to tamp it down as you go.
  4. Water the plant deeply immediately after planting.
  5. For the first year, water your hawthorn regularly, especially during dry periods.
  6. Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for shrubs.
  7. Prune indian hawthorn in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Shaping is the only pruning that's necessary; remove any dead or damaged branches.
  8. Hawthorn is generally pest and disease resistant, but watch for aphids, scale, and leaf spot.
  9. Indian hawthorn is also deer resistant.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful hawthorn for many years to come!

Related plant:
Indian Hawthorn Shrub

Soil Condition

About soil condition, Indian hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica) prefers rich, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade, though it will tolerate a wide range of soils and growing conditions. It is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.

About light

Like the other plants, Indian hawthorn needs sunlight to grow. However, too much sun can damage the leaves, so it's important to find a balance. The plant does best in partial sun, meaning it needs several hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live in a hot climate, it's best to grow Indian hawthorn in a shady spot.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition for Indian hawthorn is between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. They can tolerate occasional light frost but not extended cold periods. Indian hawthorn prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sun. They are drought tolerant once established.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant ranges between 40 to 50%. The plant can tolerate lower humidity but not for prolonged periods. If the humidity drops below 40%, the leaves will start to drop and the plant will eventually die.

Fertilizing

Regarding fertilizer, usually the plant doesn't need much. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is all that is necessary. If you want to use something organic, I recommend using compost or manure. As for the roots, they are fairly shallow so you don't need to worry about them too much. Just be sure not to plant anything too close to the plant so that the roots have room to spread out.

About light

Pruning Indian hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica) is essential to keeping this beautiful, low-maintenance shrub looking its best. Indian hawthorn is a versatile plant that can be used as a hedge, foundation planting, or even a stand-alone specimen in the landscape. While it is tolerant of a wide range of conditions, pruning is necessary to control its size and shape. Indian hawthorn is a relatively slow grower, so it doesn’t require as much pruning as other shrubs. However, it is important to prune Indian hawthorn every few years to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant.

About Propagating

Propagation is best done through softwood or semi-ripe cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be about 4-6 inches long. Cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and should have at least 2-3 sets of leaves. Cuttings should be made just below a leaf node and the bottom leaves should be removed. The cuttings should be placed in a moist, well-drained soil mix and kept in a warm, humid environment until they have rooted. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are large enough to be transplanted into the garden.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 6 and 12 inches per year. If you live in an area with a climate that is good for this plant, then the growth rate can be doubled. The plant can also be trimmed to control its size and shape.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, scale and sooty mold. Honeydew from these pests encourages the growth of sooty mold which can significantly reduce plant vigor. Scale can also be a problem, particularly on stems. Indian hawthorn is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew.

Tips on Growing

  • Do not forget to water your Indian hawthorn regularly, as it requires consistent moisture to thrive.
  • Be sure to fertilize your Indian hawthorn regularly, as it is a heavy feeder.
  • Prune your Indian hawthorn regularly to encourage new growth and prevent leggy plants.
  • Place your Indian hawthorn in an area that receives full sun to partial shade.
  • Be sure to plant your Indian hawthorn in well-drained soil.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, as Indian hawthorn is susceptible to both.
  • Regularly deadhead your Indian hawthorn to encourage blooming.
  • Pinch back young Indian hawthorn plants to encourage bushier growth.
  • Be patient when growing Indian hawthorn, as it can take a few years for it to reach its full potential.
  • Enjoy the beauty of Indian

Alternative Plants

  • Hawksbeard
  • Hawthorn Berry
  • Hawthorn Tree
  • Hawthorn Wine
  • Hawthorne
  • Hawthorne Berry
  • Hawthorne Tree
  • Hawthorne Wine
  • Honeyberry
  • Honeysuckle

Source:
Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis umbellata)
Indian hawthorns bring spring blooms to yards | Mississippi State ...
Scientific Name: Rhaphiolepis indica - Louisiana Tech University

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category