rockroses

Rockroses are evergreen shrubs of the genus Cistus in the family Cistaceae, native to the Mediterranean region. They are valued for drought tolerance, aromatic resin secretions, and large papery flowers that come in white, pink, or purple. Most species bear five petals with a crinkled appearance and bloom from late spring into early summer, often followed by a second flush in favorable conditions. Leaves are narrow, leathery, and often covered with sticky glands.

Rockroses grow on rocky, sun-exposed sites with well-drained soils. In the wild they occur in chaparral and scrub on Mediterranean slopes. They are adapted to drought and poor soils but dislike wet roots, especially in winter. Bees and other pollinators are attracted to the flowers.

Cultivation and care: Rockroses are common in ornamental plantings, especially in rock gardens and drought-tolerant borders. They require full sun and very well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering and soils with persistent moisture. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and to promote flowering; some light shaping is acceptable. They vary in hardiness; some species tolerate light frost, others require milder climates.

Propagation and uses: They can be grown from seed (often with light, scarified germination requirements) or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. In perfumery, labdanum resin is harvested from certain species such as Cistus ladanifer, historically used as a perfume and incense. Ornamental cultivars such as Cistus × purpureus are popular for their showy flowers and evergreen foliage.

Species and cultivation notes: There are about 20 to 25 species and many hybrids, including Cistus ladanifer (gum rockrose), Cistus albidus (grey rockrose), and Cistus × purpureus (purple rockrose). They are not typically invasive but can spread by self-seeding in ideal climates.