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Description
Cistus Aguilari Maculatus, commonly known as Rock Rose, is a species of flowering plant in the family Cistaceae. It is a compact, evergreen shrub that grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. The plant features small, bright green leaves and produces showy, pink, saucer-shaped flowers with a yellow center that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance and attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Cistaceae |
| Genus | Cistus |
| Species | Aguilari Maculatus |
Appearance
Rock Rose is a low-growing, spreading shrub with small, rounded, glossy, green leaves that are 1-2 inches long. The flowers are large, measuring about 2-3 inches in diameter, and have five petals that are crinkled and ruffled at the edges. The petals are pink with a yellow center, and the flowers grow in clusters at the ends of the stems. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and may produce sporadic blooms throughout the rest of the year.
Care Guide
Rock Rose is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Here are some tips for taking care of your Rock Rose:Water: Water your Rock Rose deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize your Rock Rose with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.Soil: Rock Rose prefers well-draining soil. Amend heavy soils with sand or grit to improve drainage.Sunlight: Rock Rose prefers full sun exposure. Plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Rock Rose is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rock Rose is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot in poorly-draining soil. Overwatering can also lead to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, make sure to plant Rock Rose in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Rock Rose is native to the western Mediterranean region, including Spain and Portugal. It grows in rocky, dry, and sunny habitats, such as hillsides, cliffs, and coastal areas. It is commonly used in Mediterranean-style gardens and is often grown as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does Rock Rose grow?
A: Rock Rose grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide.Q: When does Rock Rose bloom?
A: Rock Rose blooms from late spring to early summer.Q: Is Rock Rose resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Yes, Rock Rose is generally resistant to pests and diseases.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rock Rose?
A: Rock Rose is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Rock Rose:
- Cistus Ladanifer (Gum Cistus)
- Cistus Monspeliensis (Montpellier Rock Rose)
- Cistus Incanus (Pink Rock Rose)
- Cistus Salviifolius (Sage-leaved Rock Rose)
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rock-rose/growing-rockrose-plant.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/24613/cistus-aguilarii-maculatus/details
- https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1239/rock-rose/
