Indian hawthorn berries, botanical name Rhaphiolepis indica, are the fruit of an evergreen shrub and members of the Rosaceae family. There are hundreds of varieties of Indian hawthorn plants, both edible and inedible varieties. It is critical to research each plant, referencing field guides to distinguish which varieties are edible.

Indian hawthorn plants have glossy leathery green leaves. Once the plant blossoms, it produces pink-hued, star-shaped flowers and ink colored berries, succinctly known as pome fruits, ranging a mere 1-2 centimeters in diameter. The berries contain a single seed, their flavor tart and astringent. Essentially the fruit is considered inedible when raw.

Nutritional Value

Indian hawthorn berries have been used to treat heart disease as far back as the 1st century. They contain high levels of antioxidant flavonoids, which help dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow, and protect the blood vessels from damage. Traditionally, the berries have been used to treat heart problems ranging from irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure and chest pain.

Serving Ideas

Indian hawthorn berries' greatest culinary asset is that they contain concentrated levels of pectin. There primary use is as a fruit additive to jams based on other fruits. Not only can the fruit be made into jams and jellies, it can also be made into soups, purees and confections. Complimentary ingredients include baking spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, vanilla, other berries such as strawberries and huckleberries, apples, pears and persimmons. Consider using nut flours such as hazelnut and almond when using Indian hawthorn berries for baking.

Geography/History

Indian hawthorn berries are native to warm temperate and subtropical Asia from southern China, southern Japan to Thailand, Vietnam and southern Korea. The plants thrive in both inland and coastal regions, thus they are extremely salt-tolerant. Though the evergreen shrubs grow wild, they are quite commonly cultivated for ornamental use in gardens and landscapes.

Seasons/Availability

Indian hawthorn berries are available from winter into early spring.