Sunrose
helianthemum ledifolium
Also known as: ["Rock Rose","Feltleaf Sunrose"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub with bright yellow flowers and silvery foliage, native to rocky, dry habitats.
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 ledifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny, dry border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, gritty, well-draining soil with low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest spot indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun lover; avoid deep shade; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid rich soils; use gritty mix.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Avoid extreme cold; protect from frost; ensure good air flow in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use half-strength fertilizer; fertilize only during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/weak stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up; no more than 2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; trim roots; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until soil is moist but not saturated. Ensure excess water drains freely from the pot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage or dieback in hard freezes.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a dry, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt in intense heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase air circulation; water carefully to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHelianthemum ledifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHelianthemum ledifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHelianthemum ledifolium is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Helianthemum ledifolium be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Helianthemum ledifolium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Helianthemum ledifolium suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils typical of rock gardens.
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
