Small-flowered Rockrose
cistus parviflorus
Also known as: ["Dwarf Rockrose","Yellow Rockrose"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its small, yellow flowers and aromatic foliage.
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 parviflorus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny border in a Mediterranean climate
- 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 after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate the plant.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to encourage new growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; 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 pot for even growth; provide dappled shade in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
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 for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in Mediterranean-like climates.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; use a balanced formula; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn.
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 moist medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°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 4–6 weeks; plants may take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems; heading back to promote branching; remove dead or damaged wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth; best done after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; trim roots if necessary; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
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; ensure excess water drains away completely.
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, sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stems may become brittle; growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch for ground plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; plant may become stressed and vulnerable to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid contact with roots; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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-toxicCistus parviflorus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant has no known harmful effects on feline physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCistus parviflorus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCistus parviflorus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has no known adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Cistus parviflorus be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially once established.
Q: Does Cistus parviflorus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Cistus parviflorus toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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