Cistus

Cistus salvifolius
Cistus salvifolius

Cistus (rockrose)

These are understandably popular in the North County. Some outstanding characteristics include drought tolerance, relative deer resistance and a prolific spring bloom. Flower colors are white and many shades of pink.

The lowest growing variety is Cistus salvifolius, a white flowered variety that grows two by six feet. Cistus ‘Sunset’ is a hybrid with vivid neon pink flowers that makes a great ground cover, growing about three feet high and up to ten feet wide. ‘Bennett’s White’ is a handsome white flowered variety with a particularly attractive leaf.  It grows five to six feet tall.  The giant of the genus is ‘Blanche’, growing to ten feet.

A hybrid that adds color to the garden, regardless of its flowers, is Cistus ‘Mickie’, with variegated green and yellow leaves. The plant is spreading, growing to about a foot and a half by three feet. The white flowers in the spring are an added bonus. This rockrose looks very attractive all year long.

Similar Posts

  • Euonymous

    Both E. fortunei and E. japonicus have variegated varieties that brighten up the garden with their foliage.  Height ranges from about three to ten feet, depending on the variety.  Moderate to regular water is required.

  • Caryopteris

    The most commonly available species is Caryopteris x clandonensis.  There are several named varieties, all of which grow to about two feet.  They are known for their lovely purple flowers, much loved by bees.  Caryopteris loses its leaves in winter, prefers full sun and moderate water.

  • Buddleja

    Commonly called butterfly bush, buddleja can reach fifteen feet and flowers in shades of purple, lavender, pink, white or yellow.  It is also available in an increasing number of dwarf varieties, most of which grow to three to five feet.  The flowers are a favorite of butterflies, hence the common name.  All the Buddlejas perform best if they are pruned severely…

  • Philadelphus

    Philadelphus is an old fashioned shrub with wonderfully fragrant white blossoms. It is a deciduous shrub growing four to six feet tall, making it a very good foundation plant.  It is also very effective in lawns and as a background plant.  Shade in the afternoon is preferred and good drainage is essential.

  • |

    Pyracantha

    Pyracantha is an evergreen shrub known for its colorful berries in the fall and winter.  Most varieties grow to about twelve feet, although there are some outstanding dwarf varieties such as ‘Red Elf’ and ‘Lowboy’.  The biggest drawback is the sharp thorns that cover the branches, but the plants are long-lived and the berries brighten up the garden in winter as well as…