Indian hawthorns are among the most popular and widely planted flowering shrubs throughout the Inland Empire. They are easy to grow, reliable and long-lived. These qualities are greatly appreciated in both residential and commercial gardens and landscapes.
Many cultivars of Indian hawthorn have become available from nurseries over the years; some are large and robust while others are petite. They are characterized by dark green leaves and heavy springtime flowering performance. Depending upon the cultivar, flowers range in color from white to light pink; some plants produce small purple-black berries.
Indian hawthorns are used in many ways including slopes and banks, borders, containers, patio trees and a clipped hedges. They grow best in sunny locations with regular moisture throughout the year, and are adapted to many soil conditions. Some popular cultivars include: R. i. ‘Ballerina’ is a compact cultivar that grows 2-3 ft. high and has deep pink flowers; R. i. ‘Clara’ mounds 3-5 ft. high and 5-6 ft. wide and produces white flowers; R. i. ‘Springtime’ is a robust shrub 5-8 ft. high and as wide and has clear pink flowers.