Rock Rose
helianthemum oelandicum
Also known as: ["Sunrose","Feltleaf Cinquefoil"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to Europe, known for its bright yellow, rose-like flowers that bloom in summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Helianthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Helianthemum oelandicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, alpine trough, or sunny border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to very fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, gritty, or loamy soil with excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay.
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 plant if overgrown.
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 intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; for indoor plants, place near a south-facing window with unfiltered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid shaded spots.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce 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 soil dries quickly; avoid waterlogged conditions; use a mix suited for succulents or alpine plants.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent day/night cycles.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
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
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; avoid excessive size increase.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if compacted; ensure a slight pot size increase.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; 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 until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry out.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf discoloration or dieback in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage; prolonged cold can lead to plant death.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves, cause dehydration, and lead to flower drop.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHelianthemum oelandicum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHelianthemum oelandicum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHelianthemum oelandicum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Helianthemum oelandicum be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil; water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Q: Does Helianthemum oelandicum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Helianthemum oelandicum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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