Cistus × purpureus 'Alan Fradd'

RHS Plant Profile
purple-flowered rock rose 'Alan Fradd'

Synonyms

Cistus × purpureus 'Albus'

Shrubs

A large-flowered cultivar bearing tissue-thin white flowers. Each petal has a central crimson blotch at the base and a boss of golden anthers. Shrubs reach around 1m in height

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

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

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–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
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Will grow well in poor soils, but requires full sun and shelter. Tolerates salty, seaside conditions. Hardy to -10°C. Can become chlorotic on chalky soils

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Minimal pruning: Pruning group 8 or pruning group 9

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus