Full Sun
Light watering
Half-hardy
H6-H3
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1.2m | Max | |
60cm | Min |
5 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
More images of Rock Rose
Rock Rose Overview
Cistus is a genus composed of over 50 species of perennial shrubs native to the Mediterranean, Canary Islands and the Middle East. They are part of the rock rose family of plants, Cistaceae. Grown for their showy 5-petalled flowers, in colours of white, pink and purple, this genus now contains many hybrid and cultivar species. Some species have a dark red spot at the base of their petals. Leaves are oppositely arranged and evergreen. Foliage has a rough texture and some species produce leaves coated in labdanum, a highly aromatic resin. These species grow well in poor soil but need ample sunlight and a sheltered position.
Common problems with Rock Rose
Generally pest and disease free.
Rock Rose Companion Plants
Plant alongside low growing shrubs with similar water requirements.
How to propagate Rock Rose
Seed
Cuttings
Softwood cuttings. Take 10-15cm long cuttings and remove bottom half og the leaves. Place in well-draining soil mixture.
Special features of Rock Rose
Attractive flowers
Pot plant
The rock rose makes a good garden plant, it can also be grown in a large pot.
Attracts useful insects
Some species have nectar and pollen-rich flowers, which attract bees and other beneficial insect pollinators.
Other uses of Rock Rose
Grown for their succession of freely borne, short lived, showy flowers. Suitable for coastal conditions.
Plants for Summer Cuttings
Some of the many plants which you can take semi-ripe cuttings from in summer.
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Chalk Soil Plants - Top 20
These plants will thrive in the free draining conditions created by chalky soils.
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