Cistus x purpureus - Orchid Rock Rose

The Purple-Flowered Rock Rose (Cistus x purpureus: C. creticus x C. ladanifer) bears its name with good reason considering the up to 7 cm large, purple-pink flowers with a distinctive maroon mark at the base of each petal. The leaves are green with white hairy fluff, which gives them an almost silvery look. It has a compact growth habit; the bloom is abundant and long lasting.

General information on Cistus: Rock Roses are semi-shrubs with leaves that in the summer’s sun give out a spicy, tangy aroma, typical of the Mediterranean region. There, Rock Roses are characteristic plants of the macchia and in our country they also appreciate stony, well-draining soil and full sun, even hot places. From late spring to early summer they provide masses of pretty short-lived flowers. Cistus should be watered continuously but moderately. The roots should neither dry out nor be wet for a long time. Rock Roses are hardy down to approx. -12 °C ( winter hardiness zone 8). In regions with mild winters, they can be planted out permanently in the garden in gravel beds or rock gardens. In winter, their crown should be protected from the winter sun by a cover of fleece or spruce branches. A thick layer of fallen leaves should protect the root zone.

Quality

profusely flowering; wild rose-like flowers; leaves with spicy/tangy aroma; small growing shrubs for containers or as ground cover; suitable for planting out in gardens

Use:

from April to October outdoors in on balcony, terrace, or in the garden with overwintering indoors; all year round in unheated Mediterranean-style conservatories; planted out in the garden (with winter protection)

Pflege im Winter:

Pflege im Sommer: