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Cistus X purpureus

Orchid or Purple Rockrose

Plant photo of: Cistus X purpureus
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Information by:         Photographer: Susan Frommer

 

Description

Orchid rockrose is an evergreen shrub growing to 4' tall and wide, often shorter in stressful situations. The rosy-crimson flowers to 3" wide exhibit a dark purple blotch at the base of each petal, and bloom early to mid-summer. The flowers also feature a contrasting yellow cluster of stamens in the center. It does well in salt spray and cool winds. It is relatively long-lived, tolerant of heat and aridity as well as accepting many soil conditions.

 

Plant Type

Shrub

Height Range

3-6'

Flower Color

Purple

Flower Season

Spring, Summer, Intermittent

Leaf Color

Dark Green, Grey Green

Bark Color

Brown, Red

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Very Low, Low

Growth Rate

Fast, Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Seascape, Spanish, Wild Garden

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Showy Flowers

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Entry, Foundation, Parking Strip, Roadside, Walkways, With Rocks

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Mass Planting, Fire Resistant

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.

Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.