Cistus ×sahucii syn: ×Halimiocistus sahucii


Common name(s): rockrose


Description: evergreen shrub; a naturally occurring hybrid first found in France. Vigorous and low-growing with very prolific blooms of small white flowers (4 cm.) from spring to summer. Perfect for rock gardens or the front of a border. Parentage: C. salviifolius × C. umbellatus.


Height: to 1 ft. Spread: to 3 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: W. Mediterranean

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.