Rhaphiolepis 'Maximus' is a robust evergreen shrub renowned for its lush glossy foliage, abundant displays of soft pink flowers and naturally dense growth habit. Larger and more vigorous than many other Indian Hawthorn varieties, it is ideal for hedging, screening, feature planting and mass landscaping. Flowering profusely from late winter through spring, with occasional repeat blooms throughout the year, 'Maximus' provides long-lasting colour while attracting bees and other pollinators. Its exceptional tolerance to heat, coastal conditions and drought makes it an excellent choice for Australian gardens.

Flowers

Large clusters of soft pink flowers cover the plant from late winter through spring, often followed by lighter repeat flowering during the warmer months. The nectar-rich blooms attract bees and beneficial insects.

Foliage

Glossy, deep green evergreen leaves create a dense canopy that remains attractive throughout the year. New growth emerges with attractive bronze tones before maturing to rich green.

Fruit

Small blue-black berries develop after flowering and provide seasonal interest while attracting birds to the garden.

Form & Size

A dense, rounded evergreen shrub with a vigorous, naturally compact habit.

Mature Size: Approximately 2–3m high × 2–3m wide

Growing Conditions

Sun: Full sun to part shade. Best flowering occurs in full sun.

Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soils but adapts well to most soil types with good drainage.

Water: Water regularly during establishment. Once established it is drought tolerant and only requires occasional watering during extended dry periods.

Frost: Tolerates light to moderate frosts.

Wind: Excellent tolerance of coastal conditions and moderate to strong winds.

Climate: Well suited to subtropical, warm temperate, Mediterranean and coastal climates throughout Australia.

Uses

• Informal hedging
• Privacy screening
• Feature shrub
• Mass planting
• Coastal gardens
• Commercial landscaping
• Streetscapes
• Wildlife gardens
• Large containers

Maintenance

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a dense shape and encourage fresh growth. Feed annually with a quality slow-release fertiliser in spring and mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Notes

Rhaphiolepis 'Maximus' is valued for its larger size, vigorous growth and reliable flowering performance. Its dense evergreen foliage, colourful flowers and attractive berries provide year-round interest, while its toughness makes it an outstanding low-maintenance choice for both residential and commercial landscapes.

Companion Plants

• Rhaphiolepis 'Snow Maiden'
• Rhaphiolepis 'Oriental Pearl'
• Rhaphiolepis 'Oriental Pink'
• Gardenia 'Magnifica'
• Loropetalum 'Plum Gorgeous'
• Nandina 'Moon Bay'
• Liriope 'Emerald Cascade'
• Lomandra 'Little Pal'
• Buxus microphylla var. japonica

Common Name: Maximus Indian Hawthorn

Botanical Name: Rhaphiolepis indica 'Maximus'

Family: Rosaceae

Origin: Cultivated selection of Rhaphiolepis indica, a species native to southern China and Japan.