White Rockrose
cistus lasianthus
Also known as: ["White Rockrose","Spanish Rockrose"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its white flowers with a yellow center and woolly leaves.
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 lasianthus |
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 early spring before new growth begins.
- 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). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; place near south-facing window.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure excellent drainage, and avoid frequent light watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but is sensitive to prolonged cold or extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from new growth.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use softwood cuttings for best results; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches to improve air circulation and shape.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or crossing branches; make clean cuts just above a node.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Cistus prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the root ball but avoiding wetting foliage. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow leaves to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks unless conditions are very dry.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in heat stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or leaf drop if below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Protect with frost cloth in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; move to a sheltered location if possible.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
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-toxicCistus lasianthus is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCistus lasianthus is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCistus lasianthus is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cistus lasianthus?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Cistus lasianthus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Cistus lasianthus toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information on its toxicity to pets; it is best to keep pets away from the plant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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