Rhaphiolepis indica spring time, Rafiolepis.

They are shrubs that can reach 3 metres in height. They have alternate, oval-shaped, leathery, shiny dark green leaves. The pink or white flowers appear in terminal clusters and have 5 petals. They flower at the beginning of spring. They produce fruit resembling small apples.

They can be used as isolated specimens in small gardens and to form groups.

Rafiolepis is a plant that needs sunny exposure and protection from wind and cold.

It likes soils similar to potting soils with a good supply of organic matter. Transplanting should be done in spring or autumn.

It should be watered sufficiently so that the soil is always moist but not waterlogged. It is important to note that it is best to water with lime-free water.

These shrubs are somewhat demanding when it comes to fertilisation, with an annual addition of organic matter and 3 applications of mineral fertiliser which should be made at planting, before flowering and at the beginning of autumn.

These plants are not usually attacked by the usual garden pests and diseases.

It is a plant that is propagated from seeds sown in spring and by cuttings at the end of summer.