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Rockroses

Rockrose (Cistus) is a drought tolerant, evergreen shrub with deep pink or white blooms. This plant will survive without supplemental water, but summer bloom will be sparse. It provides good erosion control.

CULTIVATION:

• Location:
  • Plant in full sun, sheltered from heavy wind.
• Soil:
  • Cistus likes well drained, moderately fertile soil. Poor and mildly alkaline soils are ok.
• Water:
  • Provide occasional water in dry, hot weather.
• Pruning:
  • Pinch back young plants after they flower. This will discourage leggy growth and make the plant bushier.

PROPAGATION:

• Cistus may be started from seed as soon as it is ripe or in late spring.
• It transplants easily from homegrown or purchased four-inch or half gallon pots.
• You can also start it from softwood or greenwood cuttings in early summer.

SOURCES:

• Local Nurseries

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