Rhaphiolepsis is a versatile and hardy shrub that brings both beauty and durability to any garden. With its glossy foliage and delicate clusters of flowers, it adds a touch of elegance to your landscape throughout the year.
Planting Calendar
Rhaphiolepis is best planted from autumn through to spring.
Prepare
Commonly known as Indian Hawthorn, is a hardy evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and flowers that are either pink or white from late winter to spring. Easy to grow in a sunny spot in the garden. Tolerant of coastal sites and makes a great container plant also. Ideal as a small hedge when regularly clipped.
Position
Plant in full sun to light shade into a free draining soil rich in organic matter.
Soil
When planted into the ground Rhaphiolepis likes a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains added water storage crystals and Saturaid, two products that help maintain moisture in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets and Kings 24 plus fertiliser, then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil.
Feeding
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container, feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground.
Pruning
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape and size.
Expert Tip
Regular pruning after flowering with encourage new growth and prevent leggy growth.
Tip
Rhaphiolepis is a great plant to encourage bees into the garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rhaphiolepis?
Rhaphiolepis, commonly known as Indian Hawthorn, is an evergreen shrub known for its attractive foliage and clusters of fragrant flowers. It is often used in gardens and landscapes for its year-round appeal and easy maintenance.
How do I plant Rhaphiolepis?
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets and Kings 24 plus fertiliser, then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
How often should I water Rhaphiolepis?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil.
When and how should I prune Rhaphiolepis?
Prune Rhaphiolepis after the flowering season, usually in late spring or early summer. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant to maintain its desired size and form. Light pruning is generally sufficient.
How do I protect Rhaphiolepis from pests and diseases?
Rhaphiolepis is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can occasionally suffer from fungal diseases like leaf spot. Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any affected leaves to prevent the spread of disease.