cistus salviifolius - Gardening Tips
Rockrose (Cistus) is a genus of flowering, fast-growing evergreen shrubs characterized by dense green foliage, delicate, papery flowers, and aromatic leaves. These shrubs are hardy, drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and withstand extreme heat. They are perennial shrubs found on dry or rocky soils throughout the Mediterranean region, from Morocco, Spain, Italy, Greece, through to the Middle East, and also on the Canary Islands.
Understanding the Context
Cistus, with its many hybrids and cultivars, is commonly encountered as a garden flower. My Cistus varieties, also known as rockroses, are among the few bushy evergreen shrubs I have planted in all areas of my garden. Nothing says “summer” to me more than their simple, sunny, bright-colored blooms. Cistus offers a wide and ever-changing selection of climate-adapated plants, new textures for gardens, as well as horticultural treasures from around the world.
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Key Insights
Drought tolerant plants are a big part of the gardener’s approach to this problem and sunroses, also know as cistus, are one of the best options. The common name gives it away, sunrose. Like wild roses, the flowers have five colorful petals surrounding a golden center. Very large growing deep green aromatic Cistus with enormous clear white flowers for an extended period in May-July. The flowers are so large they are reminiscent of the Matilija Poppy (Romneya coulteri) and they virtually obscure the foliage in bloom.
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Learn all about Cistus - choose the best ones to grow, where to buy, where to plant and care advice from RHS experts. Cistus is a typical prairie shrub, very common in Mediterranean areas, and it will adapt well to similar mild, dry climates. To correctly plant cistus, best plant in spring or fall in a spot that is protected from strong winds.