The Rock Rose
With many varieties offered Cistus are a hardy group of evergreen shrubs that once established are reasonably drought tolerant.
Often referred to as the ‘Rock Rose’, these are an excellent plant in the garden border where they require very little care, lower growing varieties are very useful as a ground cover plant.
Varieties come with pink to white paper like flowers, all are attractive to bees.
Cistus Varieties
- Cistus ladanifer is referred to as the ‘Gum Cistus’,
- C. salvifolius is the sage leaf rockrose.
- C. monspeliensis is the ‘Montpelier Rock Rose’.
- Cistus albidus is a pink flowering species from the Mediterranean and Northern Africa, attractive grey/green foliage and easy care in a sunny position.
- Cistus populifolius with its pure white flowers that contrast well against the apple green foliage that has interesting ruffled leaf margins, it reaches around 2m in height.
- Cistus salvifolia ‘Prostratus’ is smaller growing than most and can be used as a ground cover plant. Best used at the front of the garden border.
Cultivars such as ‘Brilliancy’ are amongst the most popular of this hardy group of plants. Narrow deep green foliage and brilliant pink flowers with crimson markings make this a standout.
How tough are they ? We have seen them used in mass plantings in shopping centres, car parks and roadside areas where they receive very little extra water or extra care.
How big will they grow ? To around 1m with a slightly larger spread.
Care
These are a low growing hardy shrub or ground cover. Choose the right variety height wise for the position.
- Hardy and drought tolerant once established.
- Plant in a sunny position in a well drained soil.
- Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.
- Mulch around the plant to maintain a cool moist root run.
- Plants can be pruned back lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
You may also be interested in
Cistus varieties are available for sale from the following nurseries
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au
862 Midland Highway Mount Rowan Vic 3352
We offer over 245 varieties of Fuchsia, tubestock, pots, baskets and standards. Mail order specialists. Open 7 days by appointment.
www.brenlissaonlinenursery.com.au