Helianthemum Syriacum

Description

Helianthemum Syriacum, commonly known as the Syrian rock rose, is a small flowering shrub belonging to the Cistaceae family. It is a native plant to the Mediterranean region, including Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. The plant produces small, delicate flowers in shades of pink, white, and yellow, and its leaves are evergreen, dense, and silky.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Helianthemum Syriacum is a small shrub that can grow up to 60 cm in height and spread up to 90 cm wide. Its leaves are small, evergreen, and densely packed with silky hairs that give them a silver-gray appearance. The plant produces small flowers, usually measuring about 2 cm in diameter, with five petals in shades of pink, white, and yellow. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer and are known for their delicate beauty.

Care Guide

Helianthemum Syriacum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some guidelines to help you care for your plant:

Water: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter months.

Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Soil: Plant your Helianthemum Syriacum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun exposure, so make sure it is planted in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.

Hardiness Zones: Helianthemum Syriacum is hardy in USDA zones 8-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Helianthemum Syriacum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Spider mites and aphids can also infest the plant, so make sure to inspect it regularly and treat any infestations promptly.

Habitat

Helianthemum Syriacum is native to the Mediterranean region, including Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. It thrives in well-draining, sandy soils and prefers full sun exposure.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Helianthemum Syriacum tolerate drought?

A: Yes, this plant is drought tolerant and can survive periods of low water availability.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Helianthemum Syriacum?

A: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Q: Can I propagate Helianthemum Syriacum from cuttings?

A: Yes, Helianthemum Syriacum can be easily propagated from cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.

Q: Does Helianthemum Syriacum attract bees?

A: Yes, the plant’s delicate flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Helianthemum Syriacum:

• Helianthemum nummularium
• Helianthemum oelandicum
• Helianthemum apenninum
• Helianthemum canum

References

• “Helianthemum Syriacum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 12 Aug. 2021.
• “Helianthemum Syriacum.” Prota4U. Plant Resources of Tropical Africa, n.d. Web. 12 Aug. 2021.
• “Helianthemum Syriacum.” Royal Horticultural Society. The Royal Horticultural Society, n.d. Web. 12 Aug. 2021.