Cistus Monspeliensis
The exquisite flowers of Cistus monspeliensis last a day but the saucer-shaped blooms arrive in wonderfully quick succession and are of a startlingly fresh, fragile beauty that makes growing them worthwhile. From a bush of narrow, evergreen leaves, emerges a mass of softly furry buds that open to provide welcome interest before the explosion of roses.
- Pot size: 2L
- Height and Spread: 50cm (20in) x 60cm (24 in) after 2-5 years
The exquisite flowers of Cistus monspeliensis last a day but the saucer-shaped blooms arrive in wonderfully quick succession and are of a startlingly fresh, fragile beauty that makes growing them worthwhile. From a bush of narrow, evergreen leaves, emerges a mass of softly furry buds that open to provide welcome interest before the explosion of roses.
Since it is native to the Mediterranean region as far as Morocco, the Rock Rose prefers well drained soil and full sun. Its brief life as a flower means the blooms look remarkably fresh, the stamens bright yellow against the brilliant white petals.
From late spring to early summer, the mass of bright five-petalled rock roses bloom in succession for a day, their petals have the same lovely visual fragility of poppy petals.
- Well drained soil
- South, east, west facing
- Full sun
- Shelter
Perfect in a sunny Courtyard or Gravel garden, this shrub needs a sheltered position protected from any frosts. Avoid pruning hard, simply trim back spent blooms after flowering.