Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Cistus creticus or Pink rock-rose

The genus Cistus, family Cistaceae, comprises 20 species of shrubs native to the Mediterranean region. Some species are: Cistus creticus, Cistus albidus, Cistus ladanifer, Cistus villosus, Cistus monspeliensis, Cistus parviflorus, Cistus x pulverulentus, Cistus x skanbergii, Cistus salviifolius.

Common names: Pink rock-rose, Hoary rock-rose. This species is native to the Eastern Mediterranean.

They are highly branched shrubs with hairy branches and erect bearing that reach 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) in height. The leaves are oblong-elliptical or oval in shape, are aromatic and have very marked nerves. The showy flowers, with wrinkled petals, are pink with a yellow center. They bloom during the spring.

Pink rock-rose is used on rockery, on dry and sunny slopes, on edges and in bushy groups. It's ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens.

Cistus creticus can grow in full sun or semi-shade exposure. It resists frost down to -12 ºC (10.4 ºF).

Hoary rock-rose prefers well-drained, limestone soils. Planting is done in spring at a rate of 4 specimens per square meter.

Pink rock-rose resists drought very well; water moderately, always hoping that the soil has dried out.

Cistus creticus does not need fertilizers.

Prune lightly after flowering to keep it compact and strengthen the plant.

Pink rock-rose is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess watering.

Cistus creticus propagates by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings.

Images of the shrub Cistus creticus or Pink rock-rose