Cretan Rockrose
cistus creticus
Also known as: ["Cretan Cistus","Greek Rockrose"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its papery white or pink flowers with a dark spot at the base of each petal.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Cistus |
| Botanical Name: | Cistus creticus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden, coastal garden, or sunny border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in Mediterranean climates.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; use a balanced formula; apply in spring only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use softwood cuttings; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back to just above a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water 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, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stem dieback; reduced flowering; potential root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide winter protection in colder zones; mulch heavily; move container plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; wilting despite adequate water; reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to prevent new growth vulnerable to cold.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCistus creticus can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats if ingested. The plant's resinous compounds are not highly toxic but can lead to discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cistus creticus may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's resinous content. While not highly toxic, it is not recommended for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCistus creticus contains resinous compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but overconsumption may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cistus creticus suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of salty air and coastal conditions.
Q: How often should Cistus creticus be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established, typically only during prolonged dry spells.
Q: Does Cistus creticus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
