Rock Rose

Cistus x pulverulentus Sunset

• Position: full sun
• Soil: moderately-fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June and July
• Hardiness: frost hardy (needs winter protection in cold areas)
  
  Cistus originate from dry, rocky parts of the Mediterranean and Canary Islands, and so are drought-tolerant and low maintanance. They produce masses of flowers in midsummer, but each lasts only one day. In June and July, 'Sunset' produces a profusion of magenta flowers with prominent yellow centres that look like crumpled tissue paper, offset by wavy-margined, sage-green leaves in June and July. It is  particularly free-flowering and will tolerate chalky soil and salty air. Compact and spreading in habit, it makes an attractive, evergreen, ground cover or edging plant for a small, sheltered, sunny border.
  
  
• Garden care: After flowering, pinch back young plant toencourage a bushy habit. Lightly trim or cut back any stems that spoil the symmetry of the plant. This plant should never be pruned hard.