Rhaphiolepis indica, commonly known as India hawthorn, is a dense, broad-leaved evergreen shrub that typically grows to 4-6’ tall and as wide. It is native to slopes, wooded areas along streams and roadsides in southern China. It features serrate, oblong-lanceolate leaves (to 2-3" long). New leaves emerge with bronze tints but mature to deep green. Fragrant, white to light pink flowers (1/2" wide) bloom in spring in loose panicles to 2-3" tall. Flowers are followed by blue-black berries. Winter hardy to USDA Zones 8-10 where this shrub is easily grown in moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Best flowering and best resistance to leaf spot disease occur in locations with full sun. Tolerates light shade. Established plants tolerate some drought, but prefer regular moisture. It is grown as a hedge, in foundations and in shrub borders.