Sunrose

helianthemum salicifolium

Also known as: ["Rockrose","False Rockrose"]

Family: Cistaceae Genus: Helianthemum Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing, evergreen shrub with small, willow-like leaves and bright yellow flowers that resemble miniature suns.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malvales
Family: Cistaceae
Genus: Helianthemum
Botanical Name: Helianthemum salicifolium

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock garden, sunny border, or container in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in extreme summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest window indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid shaded spots.

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: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Use cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions.

Avoid drafty areas; protect from sudden temperature drops; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm (65–75°F), indirect light

Medium

Perlite and peat moss mix

Hormone

Recommended for faster rooting

Timeline

Roots in 3–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips; cut stems just above a leaf node; thin out crowded areas

Pruning Plan

Shape plant to maintain compact form; encourage bushier growth; remove dead or weak stems.

Tools

Clean pruning shears, gloves

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead wood; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring, before active 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 pot has drainage holes.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.

Checklist

Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target roots precisely.
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 or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or bleaching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold; leaves may turn yellow or drop.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries quickly; protect from frost with a cover.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry too quickly.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Helianthemum salicifolium may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Helianthemum salicifolium can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Helianthemum salicifolium may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Helianthemum salicifolium is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Helianthemum salicifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. No adverse effects have been reported in felines after ingestion.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, it is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting unfamiliar plants to avoid potential gastrointestinal upset.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Helianthemum salicifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets for any unusual behavior after ingestion, though toxicity is not expected.
Humans
Non-toxic

Helianthemum salicifolium is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended without proper botanical consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Helianthemum salicifolium be watered?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.

Q: Does Helianthemum salicifolium attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Q: Is Helianthemum salicifolium 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
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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