Cistus × florentinus Lam.

RHS Plant Profile
Florentine rock rose
Florentine rock rose RHS

Synonyms

Cistus varius misapplied

Shrubs

A compact, evergreen shrub with small, narrow, grey-green leaves and white, saucer-shaped, flowers with yellow centres in small clusters in summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay 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
S Europe, N Africa

How to Grow

Cultivation

Will grow well in poor soils, but requires full sun and shelter

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Ground cover

Pruning

Pruning group 8

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus