Syrian Rockrose
helianthemum syriacum
Also known as: ["Syrian Sunrose","Rock Rose"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its bright yellow flowers that resemble miniature roses.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Helianthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Helianthemum syriacum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, sunny border, or container in a warm, dry spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; must avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more extensive pruning every 2–3 years.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth every few years.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; place outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; 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. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf damage in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to root rot in wet, cold soil.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location in winter; ensure well-drained soil; apply a light layer of mulch for insulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; mist foliage lightly in the morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHelianthemum syriacum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHelianthemum syriacum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHelianthemum syriacum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Helianthemum syriacum be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires watering only during prolonged dry periods.
Q: Does Helianthemum syriacum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Helianthemum syriacum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires well-draining soil and full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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