Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn
Compact rounded evergreen with soft pink spring flowers and bronze-red new growth. Holds a tidy dome without clipping, which makes it one of the lowest-maintenance options for low hedging and mass planting.
Regular price
$70.00
Sale price
$70.00
Regular price
Tax included.
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Pot size
Available batches
- Current height guide
- Please enquire
- Pot size
- 17cm
Approximate only. Minimum height important? Confirm with us.
Height guide & disclaimer
Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you must confirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.
Quantity
Couldn't load pickup availability
About this tree
About this tree
- Mature height
- 1m to 1.5m
- Mature width
- 1m to 1.5m
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' is a compact evergreen shrub grown for its dense rounded habit and soft pink spring flowers. New growth flushes bronze-red before hardening to glossy dark green, so the plant carries colour beyond its flowering season.
It reaches around 1 to 1.5 metres tall and wide, holding a naturally tidy dome without needing to be clipped into shape. That makes it a low-maintenance choice for low hedging, mass planting along a driveway or path, and for filling the front of a border where a larger shrub would crowd.
Flowering runs through spring, typically September to November, in clusters of small pink blooms that draw bees. Once established it is hardy, drought tolerant, frost tolerant and copes with coastal exposure and poor soils, which is why Indian Hawthorn turns up so often in commercial and council plantings.
Full sun gives the densest growth and heaviest flowering. It will grow in part shade, though the habit opens up and flowering reduces.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah'
What is Rhaphiolepis 'Rajah'?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' is a compact evergreen shrub, commonly known as Indian Hawthorn. It is grown for its dense rounded habit, glossy dark green foliage, bronze-red new growth and clusters of soft pink flowers in spring. It is one of the more compact Rhaphiolepis cultivars available.
How big does it grow?
Approximately 1 to 1.5 metres tall and wide at maturity, forming a naturally rounded dome. Growth is moderate at 20 to 30 centimetres a year, and it holds a tidy shape without regular clipping.
When does it flower?
Through spring, typically September to November in most Australian gardens, in clusters of small soft pink flowers. Bronze-red new foliage follows the flowering flush, so the plant carries seasonal colour well beyond the blooms.
Can it be used as a low hedge?
Yes. It suits low hedging and border edging well at 60 to 80 centimetres spacing. Because the habit is naturally dense and rounded, it needs far less clipping than most hedging plants. Trim lightly after flowering if you want a tighter line.
Where does it grow best in Australia?
It performs across a wide range of Australian climates, from subtropical Queensland through coastal and inland NSW, Victoria and South Australia. It handles coastal salt exposure, heat, poor soils and light to moderate frost once established.
Does it need full sun?
Full sun gives the densest growth and the heaviest flowering. It will grow in part shade but the habit opens up and flowers less, so choose the sunniest position available if the display matters.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes, once established. Water regularly through the first summer to build the root system, after which it copes with extended dry periods on minimal watering. This hardiness is why Indian Hawthorn is used so widely in unirrigated commercial and roadside plantings.
How do I care for it?
Very little is needed. Water through the first summer, then only in extended dry spells. Feed with a slow-release fertiliser in early spring. Trim lightly after flowering if a tighter shape is wanted, and avoid hard pruning into bare wood. Good air circulation helps prevent leaf spot in humid conditions.
Mature height & width
Mature height & width
- Mature height
- 1m to 1.5m
- Mature width
- 1m to 1.5m
Pot sizes & dimensions
Pot sizes & dimensions
| Pot / bag size | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|
| 30cm Pot | 33cm | 30cm |
| 40cm/45L Pot | 44cm | 41.5cm |
| 50cm Pot / 70L Pot | 55cm | 41.8cm |
| 100L Bag | 50.6cm | 52.8cm |
| 150L Bag | 66cm | 55cm |
| 200L Bag | 71.5cm | 60.5cm |
| 300L Bag | 88cm | 63.8cm |
| 400L Bag | 99cm | 66cm |
| 500L Bag | 122cm | 66cm |
| 750L Bag | 134cm | 69cm |
| 1000L Bag | 146.3cm | 71.5cm |
| 2000L Bag | 176cm | 82.5cm |
General planting reference from our existing size guide. Actual containers can vary by supplier and batch; confirm exact dimensions if required.
Delivery & pickup
Delivery & pickup
Trade enquiries
Trade enquiries
We supply advanced trees to landscapers, developers, architects, and councils Australia-wide. Trade clients receive fast quotes, expert advice, and access to premium stock with reliable freight.
Freight estimate
Based on the items currently in your cart.
Final delivery cost is confirmed at checkout using your full address.
Not sure how many trees you need?
Plan your hedge
Enter the length of your boundary, then choose how closely you want to plant.
Enter your boundary length to see how many trees you need.
Measure only the boundary you intend to plant—exclude gates and gaps. Spacing is centre to centre. Quantities are rounded up for one row, allowing roughly half the spacing at each end. Site conditions and pruning affect the final hedge.
About Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah'
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' is a compact evergreen shrub grown for its dense rounded habit and soft pink spring flowers. New growth flushes bronze-red before hardening to glossy dark green, so the plant carries colour beyond its flowering season.
It reaches around 1 to 1.5 metres tall and wide, holding a naturally tidy dome without needing to be clipped into shape. That makes it a low-maintenance choice for low hedging, mass planting along a driveway or path, and for filling the front of a border where a larger shrub would crowd.
Flowering runs through spring, typically September to November, in clusters of small pink blooms that draw bees. Once established it is hardy, drought tolerant, frost tolerant and copes with coastal exposure and poor soils, which is why Indian Hawthorn turns up so often in commercial and council plantings.
Full sun gives the densest growth and heaviest flowering. It will grow in part shade, though the habit opens up and flowering reduces.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah'
What is Rhaphiolepis 'Rajah'?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' is a compact evergreen shrub, commonly known as Indian Hawthorn. It is grown for its dense rounded habit, glossy dark green foliage, bronze-red new growth and clusters of soft pink flowers in spring. It is one of the more compact Rhaphiolepis cultivars available.
How big does it grow?
Approximately 1 to 1.5 metres tall and wide at maturity, forming a naturally rounded dome. Growth is moderate at 20 to 30 centimetres a year, and it holds a tidy shape without regular clipping.
When does it flower?
Through spring, typically September to November in most Australian gardens, in clusters of small soft pink flowers. Bronze-red new foliage follows the flowering flush, so the plant carries seasonal colour well beyond the blooms.
Can it be used as a low hedge?
Yes. It suits low hedging and border edging well at 60 to 80 centimetres spacing. Because the habit is naturally dense and rounded, it needs far less clipping than most hedging plants. Trim lightly after flowering if you want a tighter line.
Where does it grow best in Australia?
It performs across a wide range of Australian climates, from subtropical Queensland through coastal and inland NSW, Victoria and South Australia. It handles coastal salt exposure, heat, poor soils and light to moderate frost once established.
Does it need full sun?
Full sun gives the densest growth and the heaviest flowering. It will grow in part shade but the habit opens up and flowers less, so choose the sunniest position available if the display matters.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes, once established. Water regularly through the first summer to build the root system, after which it copes with extended dry periods on minimal watering. This hardiness is why Indian Hawthorn is used so widely in unirrigated commercial and roadside plantings.
How do I care for it?
Very little is needed. Water through the first summer, then only in extended dry spells. Feed with a slow-release fertiliser in early spring. Trim lightly after flowering if a tighter shape is wanted, and avoid hard pruning into bare wood. Good air circulation helps prevent leaf spot in humid conditions.
- Foliage
Evergreen (foliage year round)
- Position
- Form
- Use
- Mature height
- 1m to 1.5m
- Mature width
- 1m to 1.5m
Planting Information
Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn is expected to grow 20cm to 30cm per year.
Long Term Care For Your Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn
Planting Your Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn in Different Soil
Uses in my Garden
Uses in my Garden
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn works in an:
Is Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn Evergreen or Deciduous?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn is an Evergreen (foliage year round) Tree
Mature Height & Width
Mature Height: 1m to 1.5m
Mature Width: 1m to 1.5m
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn is expected to grow 20cm to 30cm per year.
Growth Rate of Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn is expected to grow 20cm to 30cm per year.
They are considered to have a:
Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn
Is Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn frost tolerant?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn is Frost Tolerant – Can handle light to moderate frost once established.
Does Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn Flower?
Rhaphiolepis 'Rajah' produces clusters of small soft pink flowers through spring, typically September to November in Australia. Flowering is heaviest in full sun, and the display is followed by a flush of bronze-red new foliage that extends the seasonal colour.
Does Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn flower?
Flowering Period:
Flower Type:
Flower Colour:
Pink
Is Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn an Australian Native Tree?
No
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn is Native to Southern China and Japan. The parent species Rhaphiolepis indica grows naturally on coastal slopes and open hillsides, which is the source of its salt, heat and drought tolerance. 'Rajah' is a compact cultivar selected for its dense rounded habit and soft pink flowering.
What is the Wildlife Value of Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn ?
The clustered pink spring flowers of Rhaphiolepis 'Rajah' provide nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators. Small dark berries follow the flowering season and are taken by birds, and the dense evergreen habit offers year-round shelter for small garden birds.
How much Sunlight does Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn need?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn will thrive best in:
Preferred Soil?
Rhaphiolepis 'Rajah' grows in almost any free-draining soil, from sand through to loam, and tolerates poorer ground where more demanding shrubs struggle. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The only real requirement is drainage, as persistently wet soil leads to root rot.
Is Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn Drought Tolerant?
Is Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn Drought tolerant?
Through establishment 'Rajah' benefits from regular watering to build a strong root system. Once established it is genuinely drought tolerant and copes with extended dry periods on minimal supplementary watering, reflecting its origins on dry coastal slopes. This hardiness is why Indian Hawthorn is used so widely in unirrigated commercial plantings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rhaphiolepis 'Rajah'?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' is a compact evergreen shrub, commonly known as Indian Hawthorn. It is grown for its dense rounded habit, glossy dark green foliage, bronze-red new growth and clusters of soft pink flowers in spring. It is one of the more compact Rhaphiolepis cultivars available.
How big does it grow?
Approximately 1 to 1.5 metres tall and wide at maturity, forming a naturally rounded dome. Growth is moderate at 20 to 30 centimetres a year, and it holds a tidy shape without regular clipping.
When does it flower?
Through spring, typically September to November in most Australian gardens, in clusters of small soft pink flowers. Bronze-red new foliage follows the flowering flush, so the plant carries seasonal colour well beyond the blooms.
Can it be used as a low hedge?
Yes. It suits low hedging and border edging well at 60 to 80 centimetres spacing. Because the habit is naturally dense and rounded, it needs far less clipping than most hedging plants. Trim lightly after flowering if you want a tighter line.
Where does it grow best in Australia?
It performs across a wide range of Australian climates, from subtropical Queensland through coastal and inland NSW, Victoria and South Australia. It handles coastal salt exposure, heat, poor soils and light to moderate frost once established.
Does it need full sun?
Full sun gives the densest growth and the heaviest flowering. It will grow in part shade but the habit opens up and flowers less, so choose the sunniest position available if the display matters.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes, once established. Water regularly through the first summer to build the root system, after which it copes with extended dry periods on minimal watering. This hardiness is why Indian Hawthorn is used so widely in unirrigated commercial and roadside plantings.
How do I care for it?
Very little is needed. Water through the first summer, then only in extended dry spells. Feed with a slow-release fertiliser in early spring. Trim lightly after flowering if a tighter shape is wanted, and avoid hard pruning into bare wood. Good air circulation helps prevent leaf spot in humid conditions.
Compare sizes side by side
17cm
Enquire for current heights
Heights are approximate and vary between individual trees.
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' is loved for its Compact rounded evergreen with soft pink spring flowers and bronze-red new growth. Holds a tidy dome without clipping, which makes it one of the lowest-maintenance options for low hedging and mass planting.
We take pride in supplying A+ grade advanced trees. When stock at our farm is not yet ready, we work with our trusted trade suppliers to source the best available trees for your garden.
Plant Your Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn With:
Trachelospermum jasminoides – Star Jasmine
Trachelospermum jasminoides, commonly called Star Jasmine, is an evergreen twining climber, and despite the name it is not a true jasmine. Stems wind through wire and lattice and build a woody framework over time, carrying oval, glossy dark green leaves. Scented white flowers shaped like five pointed stars open through spring and summer.
Full sun gives the heaviest flowering, though it grows perfectly well in part shade. Any free draining soil will do. Growth is moderate at 30 to 50 centimetres a year. It is frost tolerant once established, handles salt wind and short dry periods, and performs from Perth and Adelaide through to Sydney and Brisbane.
On a fence or wall it covers 2 to 3 metres of support, more with age and training. Left unsupported it spreads as a groundcover 30 to 45 centimetres deep, useful on batters and under established trees. It is the standard answer when a boundary needs green cover without the bulk of a hedge.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Star Jasmine
What is Star Jasmine?
Trachelospermum jasminoides is an evergreen twining climber from east Asia, and despite the common name it is not a true jasmine. It builds a woody framework of stems carrying glossy dark green leaves, and produces scented white flowers shaped like five pointed stars. It is grown as a climber, a groundcover or a clipped cover.
How fast does Star Jasmine grow?
Growth is moderate at about 30 to 50 centimetres a year once established. The first year is slow while the roots develop, and the pace picks up noticeably in the second and third seasons. Regular water and a spring feed speed things along, and plants tied in early cover a fence faster than those left to find their own way.
Does Star Jasmine need sun or shade?
It grows in full sun through to part shade. Full sun produces the tightest growth and by far the most flowers, while shaded plants stay leafier with sparse flowering. In hot inland gardens some afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch. Against a west facing wall, make sure the roots stay mulched and watered.
Is Star Jasmine frost tolerant?
Yes, established plants handle light to moderate frost without damage, though the leaves often take on a bronze or purple tone through winter and green up again in spring. Young plants in their first winter are more vulnerable and benefit from a sheltered position or a temporary cover in cold inland districts.
Can Star Jasmine be used as a groundcover?
Yes. Left without support it spreads sideways into a dense mat roughly 30 to 45 centimetres deep, which is a common way to cover batters, median strips and the ground under established trees. Space plants about 1 metre apart for cover within two seasons, and trim the runners back off paths.
Is Star Jasmine suitable for coastal positions?
It handles coastal conditions well, including salt laden wind and sandy soil, provided it is not in the front line of direct salt spray. Improve sandy ground with compost before planting and mulch to hold moisture. It is used widely on coastal fences and retaining walls along the eastern and southern seaboard.
How do I care for Star Jasmine?
Water through the first two summers, after which it asks for very little. Prune after flowering, cutting back long runners and thinning the framework if it has built up thick and woody. It takes a hard cut back and reshoots. Feed in early spring. Wear gloves when pruning, as the milky sap can irritate skin.
Trachelospermum jasminoides – Star Jasmine
Trachelospermum jasminoides – Star Jasmine
Trachelospermum jasminoides, commonly called Star Jasmine, is an evergreen twining climber, and despite the name it is not a true jasmine. Stems wind through wire and lattice and build a woody framework over time, carrying oval, glossy dark green leaves. Scented white flowers shaped like five pointed stars open through spring and summer.
Full sun gives the heaviest flowering, though it grows perfectly well in part shade. Any free draining soil will do. Growth is moderate at 30 to 50 centimetres a year. It is frost tolerant once established, handles salt wind and short dry periods, and performs from Perth and Adelaide through to Sydney and Brisbane.
On a fence or wall it covers 2 to 3 metres of support, more with age and training. Left unsupported it spreads as a groundcover 30 to 45 centimetres deep, useful on batters and under established trees. It is the standard answer when a boundary needs green cover without the bulk of a hedge.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Star Jasmine
What is Star Jasmine?
Trachelospermum jasminoides is an evergreen twining climber from east Asia, and despite the common name it is not a true jasmine. It builds a woody framework of stems carrying glossy dark green leaves, and produces scented white flowers shaped like five pointed stars. It is grown as a climber, a groundcover or a clipped cover.
How fast does Star Jasmine grow?
Growth is moderate at about 30 to 50 centimetres a year once established. The first year is slow while the roots develop, and the pace picks up noticeably in the second and third seasons. Regular water and a spring feed speed things along, and plants tied in early cover a fence faster than those left to find their own way.
Does Star Jasmine need sun or shade?
It grows in full sun through to part shade. Full sun produces the tightest growth and by far the most flowers, while shaded plants stay leafier with sparse flowering. In hot inland gardens some afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch. Against a west facing wall, make sure the roots stay mulched and watered.
Is Star Jasmine frost tolerant?
Yes, established plants handle light to moderate frost without damage, though the leaves often take on a bronze or purple tone through winter and green up again in spring. Young plants in their first winter are more vulnerable and benefit from a sheltered position or a temporary cover in cold inland districts.
Can Star Jasmine be used as a groundcover?
Yes. Left without support it spreads sideways into a dense mat roughly 30 to 45 centimetres deep, which is a common way to cover batters, median strips and the ground under established trees. Space plants about 1 metre apart for cover within two seasons, and trim the runners back off paths.
Is Star Jasmine suitable for coastal positions?
It handles coastal conditions well, including salt laden wind and sandy soil, provided it is not in the front line of direct salt spray. Improve sandy ground with compost before planting and mulch to hold moisture. It is used widely on coastal fences and retaining walls along the eastern and southern seaboard.
How do I care for Star Jasmine?
Water through the first two summers, after which it asks for very little. Prune after flowering, cutting back long runners and thinning the framework if it has built up thick and woody. It takes a hard cut back and reshoots. Feed in early spring. Wear gloves when pruning, as the milky sap can irritate skin.
Trachelospermum jasminoides – Star Jasmine
Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls
Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls
Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls are pre-clipped formal evergreen specimens, available in three mature sizes and ready to place. The tight, fine, dark green foliage holds a precise rounded form year-round and gives the classic formal topiary look that no other Buxus replicates. As one of our most consistently strong-selling products, our English Box topiary balls are well-shaped, well-rooted, and arrive in proportion to the pot size.
English Box performs best in cool to temperate climates and is slow growing at around 15 to 25 cm per year in good conditions, which is exactly why it holds sharp formal shapes so well. It thrives in full sun to part shade with well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral loamy soil, and is frost hardy, drought tolerant once established, and excellent in containers. Two light clips per year, in spring and again in late summer, keep the ball form crisp.
Use them flanking entrances, lining formal pathways, anchoring symmetrical garden beds, defining parterre and knot gardens, and in pairs in classic urns and decorative pots at front doors. Buxus sempervirens is the original topiary plant and remains the benchmark for traditional and contemporary formal design, with a level of finesse and density that fast-growing alternatives cannot replicate.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls
What size are the English Box topiary balls when they arrive?
Our English Box topiary balls arrive pre-clipped and ready to place at the size you order. The 30cm/33cm pots have ball diameters of approximately 30 to 45 cm, the 40cm/45L pots have ball diameters of 40 to 55 cm, and the 50cm/75L pots have ball diameters of 50 to 70 cm. They are well-rooted and in proportion to the pot.
How fast does Buxus sempervirens grow?
English Box is slow-growing, adding approximately 15 to 25 cm per year once established in good conditions. This slow growth rate is one of the reasons it holds sharp formal shapes so well, and why mature pre-clipped specimens command a premium over seedling-grown stock.
What is the difference between English Box, Japanese Box, and Shaggy Box?
English Box (Buxus sempervirens) has the smallest, finest leaves and the tightest formal texture, ideal for traditional parterres and clipped balls. Japanese Box (Buxus microphylla japonica) has slightly larger leaves, grows faster, and handles heat better. Shaggy Box (Buxus bodinieri) has soft, rounded leaves, much better blight resistance, and is the best choice for humid subtropical climates where English Box can struggle.
Where does English Box grow best in Australia?
English Box performs best in cool to temperate regions including Victoria, the ACT, the NSW Southern Highlands and Central Tablelands, Tasmania, and the elevated parts of South Australia and Western Australia. In humid coastal or hot subtropical regions, consider Buxus bodinieri Shaggy Box or Japanese Box instead for better long-term performance.
How do I prune English Box topiary balls?
Lightly clip in spring and again in late summer or early autumn to maintain the ball shape. Avoid pruning in the heat of summer or during frost periods. Use sharp shears for the cleanest formal finish, and step back regularly to check the symmetry of the form.
Can English Box grow in pots?
Yes. English Box is the classic potted topiary plant and pre-clipped balls look particularly striking in pairs at entrances and on terraces. Use a minimum 30L pot for the 30cm/33cm size and scale up from there, with a quality potting mix and a slow-release fertiliser applied twice yearly.
Is English Box susceptible to disease?
English Box can be affected by box blight, particularly in humid conditions where foliage stays wet. To reduce risk, ensure good air circulation around each plant, avoid overhead watering, and prune to maintain airflow through the canopy. In high-humidity regions, Buxus bodinieri Shaggy Box is a more disease-resistant alternative.
Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls
Lavandula angustifolia English Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia English Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English Lavender or True Lavender, is the classic culinary and aromatic lavender, valued for its slim silver-grey foliage and slender unbranched flower spikes that produce the strongest, sweetest fragrance of any lavender species. The dried flowers and essential oil from this species are the foundation of lavender's culinary, medicinal and perfumery use worldwide.
It performs best in full sun with free-draining soil and prefers cool to warm temperate climates. Lavandula angustifolia is highly drought tolerant and frost hardy once established, suited to cottage gardens, herb gardens, low formal borders and pots. It is less tolerant of high humidity than other lavender species, performing best through inland and Mediterranean climates rather than humid subtropical coastal conditions.
As a feature in cottage, herb, kitchen and Mediterranean-style gardens, in low formal borders, pots and mass plantings, Lavandula angustifolia brings refined fragrance, reliable summer flowering and the culinary value that makes it the most useful lavender for cut flowers, drying, oil production and cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Lavandula angustifolia English Lavender
How tall does Lavandula angustifolia grow?
Lavandula angustifolia generally reaches around 40 to 80 centimetres tall and 50 to 80 centimetres wide at maturity. It is the most compact of the common lavender species, suiting low borders, herb gardens and pots.
When does Lavandula angustifolia flower?
Lavandula angustifolia flowers from late spring through summer, producing slender unbracted purple spikes on long stems above silver-grey foliage. The flowers are the most fragrant of any lavender species and are the source of culinary lavender and lavender essential oil.
Can I cook with Lavandula angustifolia?
Yes. Lavandula angustifolia is the true culinary lavender, used in baking, herbal teas, syrups, infusions and as part of the classic Herbes de Provence blend. Other lavender species such as stoechas and dentata are higher in camphor and not recommended for culinary use.
Is Lavandula angustifolia frost tolerant?
Yes. Lavandula angustifolia is the most frost-hardy of the commonly grown lavenders, handling moderate to heavy frost once established. It is well suited to inland, tableland and cool temperate gardens where other lavender species can struggle.
Can Lavandula angustifolia be grown in a pot?
Yes. Lavandula angustifolia performs excellently in pots and raised planters thanks to its compact size. Use a quality free-draining mix, water moderately through warm weather and ensure drainage holes stay clear, since wet roots are the main cause of lavender decline in containers.
How is Lavandula angustifolia different from Italian Lavender?
Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) has slender unbracted flower spikes, flowers later in the season, prefers cooler climates and produces the sweet fragrance associated with culinary and oil use. Lavandula stoechas (Italian Lavender) carries distinctive winged bracts on top of each spike, flowers earlier, suits warm temperate and coastal climates and is grown primarily for ornamental display.
How should Lavandula angustifolia be pruned?
Lavandula angustifolia responds well to a hard prune straight after flowering, cutting back by roughly a third into green foliage. Avoid cutting into old woody stems, since lavender does not reliably reshoot from bare wood. Regular pruning keeps the plant compact and productive for many years.
Lavandula angustifolia English Lavender
Liquid error (sections/ee-products line 16): invalid url input
Stachys byzantina Lamb's Ears
Stachys byzantina Lamb's Ears
Stachys byzantina, commonly known as Lamb's Ears, is a low-growing spreading perennial valued for its remarkably soft, silvery-white woolly foliage that has the texture of lamb's ears. The thick, fuzzy oval leaves form low dense mats of silver, creating one of the most distinctive textural foliage effects in the garden.
It performs best in full sun to part shade with free-draining soil and is highly drought tolerant once established. Stachys byzantina spreads gently to form silver mats, suiting cottage gardens, sensory gardens, Mediterranean borders and as silver foliage contrast in mixed plantings. Tall pink-purple flower spikes appear through late spring and summer, though many gardeners remove them to keep the focus on the unique foliage.
As a foliage groundcover in cottage, Mediterranean, sensory and contemporary gardens, in low borders, mass plantings and along pathways where the soft texture invites touch, Stachys byzantina brings silvery contrast, drought tolerance and a tactile quality children and visitors gravitate toward.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Stachys byzantina Lamb's Ears
How tall does Stachys byzantina grow?
Stachys byzantina foliage forms low mats around 20 to 30 centimetres tall and 45 to 60 centimetres wide, spreading gently to form dense silver groundcover. Flower spikes can reach 50 to 75 centimetres when in bloom.
When does Stachys byzantina flower?
Stachys byzantina produces tall pink-purple flower spikes through late spring and summer, rising well above the silver foliage. Some gardeners remove the flower spikes as they emerge to maintain a tidy carpet of foliage and concentrate the plant's energy into leaf growth.
Where should I plant Stachys byzantina?
Stachys byzantina grows best in full sun to part shade with free-draining soil. It suits cottage borders, Mediterranean gardens, sensory plantings, pathway edges and silver foliage features. Avoid humid, poorly drained or deeply shaded positions where the woolly leaves can rot.
Is Stachys byzantina drought tolerant?
Yes. Once established, Stachys byzantina is highly drought tolerant thanks to its silvery hairs that reflect heat and reduce water loss. Through establishment it benefits from light, regular watering, then transitions to occasional watering through dry periods.
Is Stachys byzantina frost tolerant?
Yes. Stachys byzantina is highly frost hardy, handling moderate to heavy frost once established. The silver foliage often takes on a slightly bronzed tinge in colder periods and recovers fully through spring.
Can Stachys byzantina be grown in a pot?
Yes. Stachys byzantina performs well in pots, raised planters and trough plantings, particularly where the silver foliage can spill over edges. Use a free-draining mix, water moderately and ensure the woolly leaves do not sit on wet soil.
How do I maintain Stachys byzantina?
Maintain Stachys byzantina by removing flower spikes as they fade, clipping back any rotted or damaged foliage in autumn, and lifting and dividing clumps every two to three years to refresh the planting. Avoid overhead watering, which can mat down the soft foliage.
Stachys byzantina Lamb's Ears
Rosmarinus officinalis – Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis – Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis, now reclassified as Salvia rosmarinus, is Rosemary, an upright evergreen shrub with narrow needle-like grey-green leaves and a dense woody frame. The foliage is strongly aromatic year round, and small pale blue flowers appear over winter and into spring. Prostrate forms trail rather than stand upright.
It wants full sun and sharp drainage, and it is happier dry than wet. Established plants handle drought, salt wind and exposed positions with ease, which suits warm temperate and Mediterranean climates across southern Australia. Growth is 30 to 50 centimetres a year and maintenance amounts to an annual trim.
Rosemary is used as low hedging, in borders, as groundcover in its prostrate forms, and in herb and kitchen gardens where it is cut for cooking. It grows happily in a 40 to 50 centimetre pot by a back door. Ornamental structure and a usable crop from the same plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Rosemary
What is Rosemary?
Rosmarinus officinalis, now classified botanically as Salvia rosmarinus, is an upright evergreen shrub with narrow needle-like grey-green leaves and a strong resinous scent. Small pale blue flowers appear over winter and spring. The habit is woody and dense, and the aromatic foliage is held all year round.
How big does Rosemary grow?
Upright forms generally reach 1 to 1.5 metres tall and a similar width, while prostrate selections stay under 40 centimetres and spread sideways instead. Growth is around 30 to 50 centimetres a year. Regular light harvesting or trimming holds a plant well below its potential size without any harm.
Does Rosemary need sun or shade?
Full sun, without qualification. Six or more hours of direct sun gives dense growth, strong aroma and good oil content in the leaves. In shade the plant stretches, thins out and becomes prone to fungal problems. Open air movement around the plant matters almost as much as the sun does.
Is Rosemary drought tolerant?
Very. Once established it survives long dry periods on rainfall alone in most temperate districts, and it is far more likely to be killed by wet soil than by dry. Free drainage is essential. Water new plants through their first summer, then only during extended dry spells.
Can Rosemary grow in pots?
Yes, and a pot suits it well because you control the drainage. Use a pot 40 to 50 centimetres wide with a gritty free-draining mix, put it in the sunniest spot you have, and let the mix dry between waterings. A single plant on a courtyard or balcony is easy to keep.
Can I cook with this Rosemary?
Yes. Rosmarinus officinalis is the culinary rosemary, and sprigs can be cut fresh year round for roasts, breads, oils and marinades. Harvest from the soft green growth rather than the old woody stems, and take a little from several places around the bush so it keeps its shape.
How do I care for Rosemary?
Plant in full sun in free-draining soil, on a raised mound if your ground is heavy. Water sparingly once established and avoid rich fertiliser, which produces soft growth and weak flavour. Trim lightly after flowering to keep the bush dense, cutting into green growth only, since bare old wood does not reshoot.
Rosmarinus officinalis – Rosemary
Lomandra longifolia 'Tanika'®
Lomandra longifolia 'Tanika'®
Lomandra longifolia 'Tanika'® (LM300) is one of the most widely planted Australian native ornamental grasses, valued for its fine bright green strappy foliage, neat compact habit and exceptional resilience in tough landscaping conditions. A naturally compact and finer-foliaged form of the species, 'Tanika' holds a refined mounding shape without the coarser texture of standard Lomandra longifolia.
It performs reliably in full sun through to part shade, tolerates drought, frost, coastal salt and poor soils, and produces small yellow flower spikes through spring and summer that add a soft seasonal lift. At a mature size of around 60 cm tall by 60 cm wide, 'Tanika' is one of the most useful Australian natives for mass planting, modern garden borders, low-maintenance landscapes and feature pot planting.
As a compact evergreen Australian native grass for native, modern, coastal, contemporary and low-maintenance gardens, in mass plantings, borders and feature pot displays, Lomandra longifolia 'Tanika' brings fine textural foliage, year-round form and exceptional toughness to almost any garden brief.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Lomandra longifolia 'Tanika'
How big does Lomandra 'Tanika' grow?
Lomandra 'Tanika' grows to a compact mature size of around 60 cm tall by 60 cm wide, forming a neat rounded mound of fine green strappy foliage. It is significantly more compact and finer-textured than the standard Lomandra longifolia, making it the preferred form for refined garden settings.
Where should I plant Lomandra 'Tanika'?
Lomandra 'Tanika' grows well in full sun through to part shade and tolerates a wide range of soil types from sandy through to clay. It is excellent for mass planting, low borders, coastal exposed positions and contemporary garden borders, and performs reliably in both garden beds and pots.
Is Lomandra 'Tanika' drought tolerant?
Yes. Lomandra 'Tanika' is highly drought tolerant once established and is one of the most reliable Australian natives for low-water gardens. Through establishment it benefits from regular watering, then transitions to natural rainfall in most Australian climates.
Is it frost tolerant?
Yes. Lomandra 'Tanika' is frost tolerant and performs reliably across cool, temperate and warm Australian climates. The fine evergreen foliage holds its colour through winter with no protection required.
Does Lomandra 'Tanika' flower?
Yes. Lomandra 'Tanika' produces small yellow flower spikes through spring and into summer, sitting just above the foliage. The flowers are softly fragrant and provide a delicate seasonal lift, though the plant is grown primarily for its foliage form rather than its flowering.
How do I care for Lomandra 'Tanika'?
Lomandra 'Tanika' is exceptionally low maintenance. Water through establishment, then sparingly. Every 2 to 3 years, give plants a hard tidy in late winter by removing old foliage to encourage fresh growth. No regular pruning is otherwise required.
Can it be used for mass planting?
Yes – mass planting is one of the most successful uses for Lomandra 'Tanika'. Planted on a 50 to 60 cm spacing the plants knit together into a refined textural carpet within 12 to 18 months, providing a contemporary and resilient alternative to traditional groundcovers and grasses.
Lomandra longifolia 'Tanika'®
Liquid error (sections/ee-products line 16): invalid url input
Hedera canariensis Canary Island Ivy
Hedera canariensis Canary Island Ivy
Hedera canariensis, commonly known as Canary Island Ivy or Algerian Ivy, is a vigorous evergreen climbing and trailing vine valued for its large glossy dark green leaves and its ability to soften walls, pergolas and shaded planting beds with refined coverage. The leaves are noticeably broader and richer than common English Ivy, giving a lush, polished appearance.
It performs reliably in full sun through to full shade with free-draining soil and is highly drought tolerant once established. Hedera canariensis is excellent as a wall climber, a quick groundcover beneath established trees, or a softening green presence over fences and retaining structures in shaded courtyards and heritage gardens.
As a fast-growing evergreen climber and groundcover for cottage, woodland, heritage and formal gardens, in mass plantings, walls, pergolas and shaded courtyards, Hedera canariensis brings dense, glossy foliage, low-maintenance coverage and a long-lived green presence that strengthens steadily with each season.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Hedera canariensis Canary Island Ivy
How fast does Hedera canariensis grow?
Hedera canariensis is a fast-growing evergreen climber, putting on 1 to 2 metres of new growth per year once established. It is one of the quickest ways to soften a new wall or fence, and it covers shaded ground rapidly when planted as a groundcover.
Where should I plant Canary Island Ivy?
Hedera canariensis grows well in full sun through to full shade, making it one of the most adaptable climbers and groundcovers available. It is excellent against walls, pergolas, retaining structures and fences, and as a groundcover beneath established trees where many other plants struggle to thrive.
Is Hedera canariensis the same as English Ivy?
No. Hedera canariensis (Canary Island Ivy) has noticeably larger, glossier and more refined leaves than Hedera helix (English Ivy). It also has a more polished overall appearance and a slightly less aggressive root habit, making it the more elegant choice for prominent garden positions and feature walls.
Is Hedera canariensis frost tolerant?
Yes. Hedera canariensis is frost hardy and handles winter frost without damage. It performs reliably across cool, temperate and warm climates and remains evergreen through winter, providing year-round foliage when many surrounding plants are bare.
Does it need a support to climb?
Hedera canariensis attaches itself directly to walls, fences and timber using small aerial rootlets, so it does not require a trellis or wires. For best results on smooth or painted surfaces, provide initial support or wires until the plant establishes contact and starts climbing on its own.
Can it become invasive?
Hedera canariensis is vigorous and will spread if left unchecked. In garden settings it is easily managed with annual pruning to define edges and keep growth within bounds. It is well suited to defined planting beds and walls rather than naturalised or bush-adjacent settings where it could escape into surrounding vegetation.
How do I care for Hedera canariensis?
Hedera canariensis is very low maintenance. Trim back twice a year to maintain shape and define edges, water moderately through establishment then sparingly, mulch annually, and apply a light slow-release fertiliser in early spring if foliage colour drops.
Hedera canariensis Canary Island Ivy
Liquid error (sections/ee-products line 16): invalid url input
Gardenia augusta ‘Magnifica’ – Magnifica Gardenia
Gardenia augusta ‘Magnifica’ – Magnifica Gardenia
Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica' is a compact evergreen flowering shrub valued for its large highly fragrant double white flowers and lush glossy dark green foliage. From late spring through summer it produces creamy-white blooms up to 10 cm across that perfume the surrounding garden, set against broad leathery leaves that hold their colour year-round.
It performs reliably in full sun to part shade with humus-rich, slightly acidic and free-draining soil. Mature plants reach 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide, forming a dense rounded habit that responds well to light pruning after flowering. Gardenia 'Magnifica' is frost tolerant once established and benefits from regular feeding and watering through the warmer months to support strong flowering.
As a fragrant evergreen flowering shrub for cottage, formal, Japanese-inspired and low-maintenance gardens, in courtyards, entrance plantings, informal hedges and decorative pots near pathways, Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica' brings outstanding perfume, glossy foliage and reliable summer flowering to gardens where its scent can be appreciated up close.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica' Magnifica Gardenia
When does Gardenia 'Magnifica' flower?
Gardenia 'Magnifica' flowers from late spring through summer, producing large creamy-white double blooms up to 10 cm across. The flowers are intensely fragrant and the display lasts for several months, with light repeat flowering possible into autumn in warm conditions.
How big does Gardenia 'Magnifica' grow?
Mature plants reach approximately 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide, forming a dense rounded habit. Growth is moderate at 20 to 40 cm per year, and the plant can be lightly pruned to maintain a more compact size or shaped into a formal flowering hedge.
Where does Gardenia 'Magnifica' grow best?
Gardenia 'Magnifica' performs best in warm temperate to subtropical climates with full sun to part shade. It thrives across coastal NSW, Queensland, frost-free parts of Victoria and South Australia, and warm coastal areas. It prefers humus-rich slightly acidic soil and protection from harsh afternoon sun in hot inland areas.
Is Gardenia 'Magnifica' frost tolerant?
Gardenia 'Magnifica' is frost tolerant once established and handles light to moderate frost without damage. Young plants benefit from protection in their first winter through frost-prone areas, and severe inland frost should be avoided. Mature plants in established positions hold their foliage and form through cooler months.
Can Gardenia 'Magnifica' be grown in pots?
Yes. Gardenia 'Magnifica' is excellent in large decorative pots near entrances and courtyards where its perfume can be appreciated up close. Use a quality potting mix designed for acid-loving plants, water regularly through the warmer months, and feed with an acid-loving plant food in spring and summer.
How do I care for Gardenia 'Magnifica'?
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Feed with an acid-loving plant food in spring and again in mid-summer to support strong flowering. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense bushy growth, and mulch annually with an acidic mulch like pine bark.
Why are the leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves on Gardenia 'Magnifica' usually indicate either iron deficiency in alkaline soil, overwatering, or seasonal cool weather. The most common cause is alkaline soil pH. Apply an iron chelate or soil acidifier, ensure drainage is excellent, and mulch with pine bark to maintain the acidic conditions Gardenias need to thrive.
Gardenia augusta ‘Magnifica’ – Magnifica Gardenia
Evergreen Trees Direct Has Been Featured In:
Perfect Substitutes for Rhaphiolepis indica 'Rajah' – Rajah Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Snow Maiden'
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Snow Maiden'
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Snow Maiden' is a compact evergreen shrub that delivers a fresh burst of fragrant pure white flowers from late winter into spring. The dense mounding habit and glossy dark green foliage give it a lush, polished year-round appearance.
Snow Maiden grows to just 1-1.5 metres tall and wide, holding a naturally tidy rounded form with minimal pruning. The compact size makes it an excellent choice for low clipped hedges, borders, mass plantings, and containers, and it works well as a standout specimen in mixed plantings. Small dark berries follow the flowers.
Snow Maiden performs well in full sun to part shade and is drought hardy once established, thriving in coastal gardens and a wide range of well-drained soils. It is salt tolerant, low maintenance, and needs only moderate water while establishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Rhaphiolepis indica 'Snow Maiden'
How tall does Snow Maiden Rhaphiolepis grow?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Snow Maiden' grows to 1-1.5 metres tall and wide, forming a naturally compact dense mound.
How fast does Snow Maiden grow?
Snow Maiden has a moderate growth rate of 20-40cm per year once established.
When does Snow Maiden flower?
Snow Maiden produces masses of pure white flowers from late winter into spring, followed by small dark berries.
Is Snow Maiden good for low hedges?
Yes. Snow Maiden is one of the best compact evergreen shrubs for low hedges, borders, and mass plantings, holding a tidy rounded form with minimal pruning.
Is Snow Maiden drought and salt tolerant?
Yes. Snow Maiden is both drought tolerant and salt tolerant once established, making it well suited to coastal gardens and low-water landscapes.
How far apart should I plant Snow Maiden for a low hedge?
Plant 50-70cm apart for a continuous low hedge, or 80cm-1 metre for a softer informal border.
Where does Snow Maiden grow best in Australia?
Snow Maiden thrives across most Australian climates in full sun to part shade, tolerating heat, coastal exposure, and a wide range of well-drained soils.
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Snow Maiden'
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl' is one of the best compact evergreen shrubs available for low hedges and borders. The glossy dark green foliage forms a naturally tidy rounded mound, and clusters of soft white to pale pink flowers appear from late winter into spring, followed by small dark berries.
Oriental Pearl grows to just 1-1.5 metres tall and wide, holding a neat uniform shape with minimal pruning. The compact form makes it ideal for low clipped hedges, narrow borders, mass plantings, and container planting, particularly where space is limited and a formal finish is wanted.
Oriental Pearl thrives across most Australian climates in full sun to part shade, tolerating heat, coastal exposure, salt spray, light frost, and a wide range of well-drained soils. It is both drought tolerant and salt tolerant once established, making it a reliable low-maintenance choice for coastal and low-water gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'
How tall does Oriental Pearl Rhaphiolepis grow?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl' grows to 1-1.5 metres tall and wide, forming a naturally compact dense mound.
How fast does Oriental Pearl grow?
Oriental Pearl has a moderate growth rate of 20-40cm per year once established.
Is Oriental Pearl good for low hedges?
Yes. Oriental Pearl is one of the best compact evergreen shrubs for low hedges, borders, and mass plantings, holding a tidy rounded form with minimal pruning.
When does Oriental Pearl flower?
Oriental Pearl produces clusters of soft white to pale pink flowers from late winter into spring, followed by small dark berries.
Is Oriental Pearl drought and salt tolerant?
Yes. Oriental Pearl is both drought tolerant and salt tolerant once established, making it well suited to coastal gardens and low-water landscapes.
How far apart should I plant Oriental Pearl for a low hedge?
Plant 50-70cm apart for a continuous low hedge, or 80cm-1 metre for a softer informal border.
Where does Oriental Pearl grow best in Australia?
Oriental Pearl thrives across most Australian climates in full sun to part shade, tolerating heat, coastal exposure, and a wide range of well-drained soils.
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'
Rhaphiolepis ‘Little Bliss’ – Little Bliss Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis ‘Little Bliss’ – Little Bliss Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis 'Little Bliss' is a dwarf evergreen shrub with small glossy leaves and a tight, naturally rounded shape. New growth flushes fresh green before settling into a uniform canopy, and soft pink flowers sit above the foliage through spring. It is the smallest of the commonly grown Indian Hawthorns.
Give it full sun to partial shade and reasonable drainage and it will handle most soils, including sand. It takes coastal exposure and reflected heat from paving, and tolerates light to moderate frost once settled. Growth is 20 to 40 centimetres a year, and it holds its shape without shaping.
It works along paths, in low borders, in mass plantings and in pots where a controlled size is the whole point. Councils specify it for median strips and civic beds for the same reason. You get flowering interest and evergreen order at a height that never blocks a sightline.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Little Bliss Indian Hawthorn
What is Rhaphiolepis 'Little Bliss'?
Rhaphiolepis 'Little Bliss' is a dwarf evergreen shrub with small glossy leaves and a naturally neat, rounded shape. Fresh green new growth matures into a uniform canopy, and soft pink flowers sit above the foliage through spring. It is grown where you want low, tidy structure without ongoing clipping.
How big does 'Little Bliss' grow?
It is one of the smaller Indian Hawthorns, generally holding at around 60 to 80 centimetres tall and wide. The compact habit means it rarely needs cutting back to stay in scale, which is why it is used along paths and in front of taller planting where sightlines matter.
How fast does 'Little Bliss' grow?
Growth is moderate at roughly 20 to 40 centimetres a year, slowing as the plant reaches its mature size. Plants establish faster in warm weather with regular watering through the first season. Because the final size is small, that rate is enough to close a border within a couple of years.
Can 'Little Bliss' grow in pots?
Yes. It is well suited to pots, planter boxes and balcony containers because it holds a tight rounded shape without pruning. A pot 35 to 40 centimetres wide is plenty for a single plant. Use free-draining mix, water when the surface dries, and feed in spring with a slow release fertiliser.
Is 'Little Bliss' suitable for coastal positions?
Yes. It tolerates salt laden wind and sandy soil well, which makes it a reliable choice for beachside gardens and coastal civic planting. Avoid low spots where water sits after rain. In exposed front line positions give it a season of regular watering to establish before easing off.
How far apart should I plant 'Little Bliss'?
For a low hedge or a continuous border, plant 60 to 80 centimetres apart. For feature planting where each shrub is read as an individual mound, allow 1 to 1.2 metres. Mass plantings on a grid at around 70 centimetres give even coverage and close over within two seasons.
How do I care for 'Little Bliss'?
Plant in full sun to part shade in soil that drains freely, and water regularly through the first summer. After that it needs very little. A light tidy after spring flowering is optional rather than necessary. Feed once in early spring and top up mulch, keeping it clear of the stems.
Rhaphiolepis ‘Little Bliss’ – Little Bliss Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Spring Pearl’ – Spring Pearl Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Spring Pearl’ – Spring Pearl Indian Hawthorn
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Spring Pearl' is a compact evergreen shrub with glossy dark green leathery leaves and a dense, naturally rounded outline. Through spring it carries clusters of soft white flowers across the whole plant, followed by small blue-black berries. The habit is even and low branching, needing no shaping to look neat.
It performs in full sun to partial shade in free-draining soil, and tolerates coastal exposure, urban conditions and a wide range of soil types. Warm temperate, subtropical, coastal and Mediterranean climates all suit it. Growth is around 20 to 40 centimetres a year, and established plants take drought and light to moderate frost.
It is used for low hedging, mass planting, borders and foundation planting where evergreen structure matters and maintenance budgets are tight. Streetscapes, coastal gardens and low upkeep residential landscapes are its common home. Plant a run of them and you get the clipped look without the clipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Spring Pearl Indian Hawthorn
What is Rhaphiolepis 'Spring Pearl'?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Spring Pearl' is a compact evergreen shrub with leathery glossy dark green leaves and a naturally rounded, dense habit. Through spring it carries clusters of soft white flowers over the whole plant, followed by small dark berries. It is grown mainly for structure that needs very little pruning.
How big does 'Spring Pearl' grow?
It is a compact selection, generally reaching around 1 to 1.5 metres tall and a similar width. The habit is dense and rounded from the base, so it fills out without needing to be clipped into shape. Growth is around 20 to 40 centimetres a year, slowing as it nears mature size.
When does 'Spring Pearl' flower?
The main display comes through spring, from roughly September to November, when clusters of white flowers open across the whole shrub. Light scattered flowering can continue outside that window in warmer coastal gardens. Small blue-black berries follow the flowers and are taken by birds through the following months.
Is 'Spring Pearl' suitable for coastal gardens?
Yes. Indian Hawthorn handles salt laden wind and sandy soil better than most flowering shrubs, which is why it turns up so often in beachside streetscapes. It will take a front line coastal position provided drainage is good. In heavy soil, plant on a raised mound to keep water off the roots.
Is 'Spring Pearl' frost tolerant?
It handles light to moderate frost once established. Young plants are more vulnerable in their first winter, so a sheltered position and a good mulch layer help them through. In colder inland districts expect some leaf marking after a hard frost, which grows out with the spring flush.
How far apart should I plant 'Spring Pearl' for a low hedge?
Plant at 60 to 80 centimetres apart for a continuous low hedge or border, and around 1 metre apart for mass planting where each shrub keeps its own rounded outline. Closer spacing closes the gaps faster, while wider spacing gives each plant room to show its natural form.
How do I care for 'Spring Pearl'?
Plant in full sun to part shade in free-draining soil, water while it establishes, then largely leave it alone. A light trim straight after flowering keeps it dense and encourages next season's buds. Feed once in early spring. Avoid overwatering, since waterlogged soil is the main cause of failure.
Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Spring Pearl’ – Spring Pearl Indian Hawthorn
Follow Us On Instagram
@evergreentreesdirect ↗
Tips & Tricks
Best Trees for Creating a Privacy Screen: 10 Picks Across Fast Formal, Native and Narrow Column Options
Read the story
How to Incorporate Trees into Your Modern Landscape Design
Read the story
The Importance of Root Health: How to Choose Quality Trees
Read the story
