Family: Rosaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Rhaphiolepis umbellata, commonly known as Japanese hawthorn, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to eastern China, Japan, Korea, and other parts of temperate East Asia. It is valued for its dense foliage, fragrant white to pale pink flowers, and attractive dark blue-black fruits. The leathery green leaves and compact growth habit make it a popular ornamental plant for hedges, borders, foundation plantings, and coastal landscapes. Japanese hawthorn is also appreciated for its tolerance to salt spray, wind, and pruning, making it well suited for urban and seaside gardens.

Risks & Threats
Japanese hawthorn is considered a low risk species for Hawaii. It has not shown strong invasive tendencies and is generally regarded as a manageable ornamental plant when properly maintained. While birds may occasionally spread its seeds, there is little evidence that it aggressively spreads into native ecosystems or displaces native vegetation. As with any introduced species, responsible planting and monitoring are encouraged to help protect Hawaii’s unique environments and prevent unforeseen ecological impacts.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized in New Zealand
  
• Tolerates wide range of soil types and pH
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Intentionally dispersed by people (ornamental)
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds
  
• Seeds survive gut passage
  
• Shade tolerant

Low Risk Traits:

• No tropical/subtropical native range (temperate only)
  
• No agricultural or forestry weed impacts
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not toxic to animals or humans
  
• Palatable to deer browse
  
• No wind, external animal, or produce contamination dispersal
  
• No vegetative reproduction
  
• Slow-growing