Rhaphiolepis Umbellata or Yeddo Hawthorn

Rhaphiolepis Umbellata, commonly known as Yeddo Hawthorne, is a compact and slow growing evergreen shrub with year round appeal. Valued for its leathery foliage, fragrant white blooms, and decorative black berries, this versatile shrub is ideal for low maintenance gardens and coastal planting schemes. With its rounded habit and reliable structure, Rhaphiolepis Umbellata is a refined choice for gardeners looking to introduce subtle elegance to borders, plant containers, or mixed shrub planting.

This Japanese native shrub is admired for its dense rounded growth habit and attractive leaves. The foliage is broadly oval, leathery in texture, and dark glossy green, creating a perfect foil for the masses of flowers it produces. In early summer, clusters of starry white flowers emerge in terminal panicles, each bloom approximately 2 cm wide. These blossoms are lightly fragrant, attracting pollinators and bringing a seasonal flourish of brightness to the garden. After flowering, small fleshy black fruits appear, extending the plant’s decorative interest well into autumn.

Native to Japan, Rhaphiolepis Umbellata has long been valued for its resilience and ornamental features. Compared with other varieties such as Rhaphiolepis Umbellata Ovata, this species has slightly broader foliage and a tighter, more rounded growth habit. The Ovata form tends to be a little more vigorous with somewhat larger leaves, while Rhaphiolepis Umbellata offers a more compact appearance. 

Height and Width of Rhaphiolepis Umbellata:

Yeddo Hawthorne is naturally slow growing, reaching around 1.5 metres in height and a similar spread over many years. Its compact habit makes it well suited for smaller gardens or as a structural plant in larger landscapes where space is at a premium.

How Hardy is Rhaphiolepis Umbellata?

This shrub is well adapted to mild climates and can tolerate coastal conditions, including exposure to salt laden winds. Hardy in the UK to approximately -5°C, it benefits from shelter in colder inland locations. In milder regions, it thrives without additional protection and remains evergreen, providing structure through the winter months.

Uses in Garden and Landscape:

With its neat growth habit and evergreen foliage, Yeddo Hawthorne is an excellent candidate for low hedging, foundation planting, and plant container displays. Its tolerance of coastal conditions makes it a favourite for seaside gardens. It can be used to soften architectural planting schemes, line pathways, or provide year round structure in mixed borders. Its fragrant blooms also bring seasonal charm, making it a rewarding choice for wildlife friendly gardens.

Care Tips:

Rhaphiolepis Umbellata thrives in full sun. Plant in well drained soil with a preference for neutral to slightly acidic conditions. Once established, it is drought tolerant and requires minimal pruning – simply remove any damaged or stray shoots after flowering to maintain its natural rounded form. A mulch in spring will help retain soil moisture and keep roots cool in warmer months.