Cistus ×canescens nf. subcreticus


Common name(s): rockrose


Description: evergreen shrub; raised as an open-pollinated seedling of C. creticus by Robert Page in 1989. Dense, rounded growth and alluring light pink flowers that fade to white in the center from spring into summer. Parentage: C. creticus × Cistus ×canescens.


Height: to 3 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.


Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil


Uses: ornamental


Winter Hardiness: to 5 F and below


Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought


Distribution: Algeria, Morocco, Italy, Sardinia, Corsica

Care: tip-pruning after flowering (especially in the first couple of years) will result in a more attractive, compact plant. Cistus generally won't tolerate or regenerate from hard pruning of older, woody growth.