Cistus monspeliensis
Montpelier rock rose
A bushy evergreen shrub to 1m high, with linear to lance-shaped dark green leaves with deep veining. Produces dense clusters of saucer-shaped small white flowers to 2.5cm across, in late spring and early summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Cistaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Cistus are evergreen shrubs with simple, opposite leaves and 5-petalled, bowl-shaped, white, pink or purplish flowers, each lasting a single day, over a long period in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SW Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in poor to moderately fertile, well drained soil, in a sheltered position in full sun. Plant out when danger of frosts has passed. Generally lime-tolerant, but may become chlorotic on very chalky soils
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe, or by softwood cuttings in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pruning group 8 or 9. Pinch back after flowering to maintain a bushy habit; does not respond well to hard pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
Get involved
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