Cistus monspeliensis

RHS Plant Profile
Montpelier rock rose
Shrubs

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

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical 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