Rock Rose, Texas Rock Rose
pavonia lasiopetala
Also known as: ["Rock Rose","Texas Rock Rose"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Texas and Mexico, known for its showy pink flowers that resemble hibiscus blooms.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Pavonia |
| Botanical Name: | Pavonia lasiopetala |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate to subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid compacted soil; amend with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm conditions. Protect from prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall to prepare for dormancy; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
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: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 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 bag; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid waterlogging. Early morning or late evening watering is ideal to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; wilting or blackened leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Stem damage, slowed growth, or dieback in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move potted plants indoors; cover with frost cloth during freezes.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPavonia lasiopetala is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPavonia lasiopetala is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPavonia lasiopetala is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has not been documented to cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Pavonia lasiopetala be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Pavonia lasiopetala attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Pavonia lasiopetala toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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