Botanical Name: Rhaphiolepis indica
Cultivar Name: âWhiteâ
Common Names: White Indian Hawthorn, Indian Hawthorn, White Rhaphiolepis
đ Product Description
Rhaphiolepis indica is a compact evergreen shrub valued for its neat rounded growth, glossy dark green foliage, and attractive clusters of crisp white flowers. This hardy ornamental plant brings year-round structure and fresh seasonal colour to the garden, making it an excellent choice for borders, low hedges, foundation planting, and containers.
This versatile shrub is especially useful in South African gardens because of its tidy habit, tolerance of coastal conditions, and low-maintenance nature. In flowering season, the bright white blooms stand out beautifully against the leathery evergreen leaves, and these may be followed by small dark berries. It works equally well in formal and informal planting schemes, adding a polished appearance and reliable evergreen structure.
Neat, dependable, and easy to grow, Rhaphiolepis indica is an excellent choice for gardeners wanting a tough evergreen shrub with clean floral appeal.
đ Size When Fully Grown
Height: 1â1.5 m
Spread: 1â1.5 m
Growth Habit: Dense, rounded, evergreen shrub
Growth Rate: Moderate
đ± Best Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining soil; adaptable to sandy or loamy soils
Water:
âą Water regularly during establishment
âą Moderately drought tolerant once established
âą Benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods
âą Avoid permanently waterlogged soil
Feeding: Apply compost or a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Maintenance:
âą Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape
âą Remove dead or weak growth as needed
âą Very low maintenance once established
âą Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
đŠïž Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)
Best Planting Time: Spring or autumn
Active Growth: Spring and summer
Flowering Time: Spring
Climate Suitability: Suitable for most South African regions, especially temperate and coastal areas
Frost Tolerance: Tolerates light frost once established
Wind Tolerance: Good, including coastal conditions
đŒ Additional Benefits
âą Crisp white flower clusters
âą Glossy evergreen foliage
âą Neat compact habit
âą Good coastal tolerance
âą Low maintenance and hardy
đż Ideal Uses
â Low hedges
â Mixed shrub borders
â Foundation planting
â Patio containers
â Coastal and formal gardens

