Dwarf Rockrose
cistus clusii
Also known as: ["Dwarf Rockrose","False Rockrose"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its attractive, papery flowers and aromatic foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Cistus |
| Botanical Name: | Cistus clusii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock 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 root rot.
- 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 in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Avoid placing in locations with intense, unfiltered midday sun to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure protection from harsh winds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun lover; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; acclimate slowly to direct light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
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 sand or grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but is sensitive to prolonged cold or extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain moderate temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only once a year in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
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, humid environment with bright, indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use semi-hardwood cuttings; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; ensure bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged growth; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots; place in a pot only slightly larger than the root ball.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, as Cistus prefers being slightly root-bound. Typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Use well-draining soil; check for root-bound condition; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Ensure water drains freely from the soil.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting, scorching, or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and slow growth, leading to poor vigor and potential dieback.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade during peak heat, increase humidity around the plant, and water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid overfertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid frequent feeding; overfertilization can harm this plant.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCistus clusii is not toxic to cats. Ingestion of any part of the plant is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCistus clusii is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion of any part of the plant is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCistus clusii is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Cistus clusii be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially once established.
Q: Does Cistus clusii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Cistus clusii suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and well-suited for coastal environments.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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