Cistus purpureus ‘Orchid Rockrose’

One of the showiest and hardiest of Rockroses, Cistus purpureus is a hybridized perennial that has embraced the best qualities of its two parents, C. ladanifer and C. criticus. It grows 4-6 feet tall x 4-5 feet wide, with dark green foliage and 3” magenta-rose flowers that have a deep burgundy spot on each petal base. The bright golden-yellow stamens attract a wide variety of beneficial pollinators.

‘Orchid Rockrose’ is a durable evergreen shrub that is tolerant of a wide variety of growing conditions. It can handle the wind and salt-spray of a seaside garden as well as hot dry conditions of an inland landscape.

Cistus purpureus puts out an abundance of blooms over a long season and creates an outstanding natural screen. Use it on banks, borders, or slopes. Companion plant with other Mediterranean climate plants for an attractive and low-maintenance garden. After rigorous trials and assessments, it was recognized for its outstanding landscape performance by the Royal Horticultural Society, when it was given the “RHS Award of Garden Merit”.

Cistus purpureus is cold hardy to 15°F, and the Sunset Climate Zones are 3b, - 9, 14 – 24. An added bonus is that it’s fairly deer tolerant. Plant in full sun, in well-drained soil. We are currently growing Cistus purpureus ‘Orchid Rockrose’ in one gallon containers. Follow us on Instagram @clearwatercolornursery to see daily life around our nursery.