View source for Raphiolepis

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Raphiolepis (Greek, raphis, needle, and lepis, scale; referring to the subulate bracts). Sometimes spelled Rhaphiolepis. Rosaceae, subfamily Pomeae. Ornamental shrubs grown for their handsome foliage and attractive white or pinkish flowers.

Leaves persistent, alternate, short-petioled, serrate, rarely entire: fls. in terminal racemes or panicles; sepals triangular; petals 5, oblong or obovate; stamens 15-20; ovary completely inferior; styles 2-3, connate toward the base : fr. subglobose, purplish black or bluish black with 1 large subglobose or 2 partly compressed seeds. — Two or perhaps 4 species in S. Japan and China.

These are handsome evergreen shrubs with alternate or obscurely whorled leaves, white or slightly pinkish flowers and small pea-sized black fruits. None of the species is hardy North, but R. umbellata will stand about 10° of frost or even more with some protection; they are well suited for cultivation in the southern states and California. They will thrive in any good well-drained soil, and if cultivated in pots, a compost of sandy loam and leaf-mold or peat will suit them. Propagation is by seeds or by cuttings of ripened wood under glass late in summer; also by layers, and sometimes grafted on hawthorn.
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