Cistus ×clausonii


Common name(s): rockrose


Description: evergreen shrub; a naturally occurring hybrid found in Spain and NW Africa. Very rare in cultivation. Rounded growth with uniquely thick foliage and pink flowers from spring into summer. Parentage: C. albidus × C. heterophyllus.


Height: to 3 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.


Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil


Uses: ornamental


Winter Hardiness: to 10 F and below


Drought: adapted to 4.5 months of summer drought


Distribution: Spain, Morocco, Algeria

Care: tip-pruning after flowering (especially in the first couple of years) will result in a more attractive, compact plant. Cistus generally won't tolerate or regenerate from hard pruning of older, woody growth.