Cistus ×obtusifolius


Common name(s): rockrose


Description: evergreen shrub; Compact, rounded growth and white flowers (5 cm.) from spring into summer. Very floriferous and hardy. Parentage: C. salviifolius × C. inflatus


Height: to 3 ft. Spread: to 4 ft.


Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil. Will tolerate nearby root competition from larger trees such as pines and firs


Uses: ornamental, weed-suppressing groundcover


Winter Hardiness: to 5 F and below


Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought


Distribution: Portugal, Spain, W. France

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.