Rock Rose

helianthemum marifolium

Also known as: ["Sunrose","Feltleaf Cinquefoil"]

Family: Cistaceae Genus: Helianthemum Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to rocky, dry areas, known for its bright yellow flowers that resemble small roses.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Cistaceae
Genus: Helianthemum
Botanical Name: Helianthemum marifolium

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers with excellent drainage
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • 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 or in early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with unobstructed morning sun and filtered afternoon light.

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

Avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure excellent drainage.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or rocky soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

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

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions.

Protect from frost; avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer

Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

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

Medium

Perlite and peat moss mix (1:1 ratio)

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone powder for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop 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 and cut back leggy stems to just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Sharp bypass pruners, clean scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. 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 leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot if soil remains damp.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; apply a protective mulch if outdoors in borderline zones.

Hot Stress

Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but infrequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

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

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

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

Wilting in Helianthemum marifolium can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to impaired nutrient uptake and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Helianthemum marifolium are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Helianthemum marifolium due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, compromising structural integrity and nutrient transport.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Helianthemum marifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Helianthemum marifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Helianthemum marifolium is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption in typical quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or growing this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Helianthemum marifolium be watered?

A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, typically only during prolonged dry spells.

Q: Does Helianthemum marifolium attract wildlife?

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

Q: Can Helianthemum marifolium be grown in containers?

A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires well-draining soil and full sun.

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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