Also known as Rockrose · 36 saves
Cistus
Cistus, the genus most gardeners know as rockrose. We track 3 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Cistus varieties
Species of Cistus
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Cistus in Sow
Save the Cistus you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Cistus
Whats common across all Cistus varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them.
The Cistus year
- PlantMarch, April, September and October100% of varieties
Plant in well-drained soil during mild weather.
- PruneMay and June100% of varieties
Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain shape; avoid cutting into old wood.
- MulchMarch67% of varieties
Apply a light layer of gravel or stone mulch; keep crown dry.
- Spring CleanupFebruary67% of varieties
Remove any dead or damaged foliage from winter.
Do
- Water sparingly once established 💧
- Prune lightly after flowering ✂️
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Water deeply but infrequently to mimic natural drought conditions 🌱
Avoid
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Heavy pruning during the growing season
- Use high-nitrogen fertilizer that promotes excessive foliage
- Heavy fertilization, which may promote leggy growth ❌
What goes wrong with Cistus
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Scale insects | Yellowing and weakening of stems | Apply horticultural oil during dormant season |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply fungicide and improve air circulation |
| Root Rot | Wilting, yellowing leaves, and mushy roots. | Improve drainage and reduce watering. |
Making more Cistus
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Dip in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil.
- Keep soil moist and place in partial shade for 6 weeks.
Seeds
- Sow seeds in well-draining soil in early spring.
- Keep moist and place in full sun.
- Germination occurs in 2-3 weeks, seedlings grow slowly.
Cistus questions
How many types of Cistus are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Cistus varieties. The most popular — ranked by 36 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Cistus grow in?
Across its varieties, Cistus covers USDA Zones 7–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Cistus bloom?
Most Cistus varieties bloom in late spring to early summer, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Cistus should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.