Cistus ×skanbergii


Common name(s): rockrose


Description: evergreen shrub; a naturally occurring hybrid found in the E. Mediterranean. Narrow, green foliage that appears gray-green in summer and upright, rounded growth with small, pale pink flowers (3.5 cm.) from spring into summer. Very floriferous but requires better drainage than most cistus. Parentage: C. parviflorus × C. monspeliensis.


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


Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil


Uses: ornamental


Winter Hardiness: to 10 F and below


Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought


Distribution: E. 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.