Sunrose
helianthemum nummularium
Also known as: ["Rockrose","False Rockrose"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to Europe, known for its bright yellow, five-petaled flowers that resemble small suns.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Helianthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Helianthemum nummularium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining. Helianthemum is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth to rejuvenate it.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid deep shade; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry out; avoid frequent light watering; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy soils; add grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain moderate temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize only during active growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks. Plants may take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep cuttings humid; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching. Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased stems; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Helianthemum prefers slightly crowded roots but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose a slightly larger pot; use fresh soil; trim roots if necessary; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or grit to improve drainage. Incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf damage or dieback. Prolonged cold may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or mulch. Ensure soil is well-drained to prevent cold-induced root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering. High temperatures combined with dry soil stress the plant.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Water deeply during heatwaves, but allow soil to dry between waterings.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Helianthemum nummularium may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not highly toxic to felines, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Helianthemum nummularium by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicHelianthemum nummularium contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant amounts. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic, but overconsumption may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Helianthemum nummularium be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires watering only during prolonged dry periods.
Q: Does Sunrose attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Helianthemum nummularium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained containers with full sun exposure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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