Care of the shrub Cistus creticus or Pink rock-rose |
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The genus Cistus, family Cistaceae, comprises 20 species of shrubs native to the Mediterranean region. Some species are: Cistus creticus, Cistus albidus, Cistus ladanifer, Cistus villosus, Cistus monspeliensis, Cistus parviflorus, Cistus x pulverulentus, Cistus x skanbergii, Cistus salviifolius. Common names: Pink rock-rose, Hoary rock-rose. This species is native to the Eastern Mediterranean. They are highly branched shrubs with hairy branches and erect bearing that reach 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) in height. The leaves are oblong-elliptical or oval in shape, are aromatic and have very marked nerves. The showy flowers, with wrinkled petals, are pink with a yellow center. They bloom during the spring. They are used on rockery, on dry and sunny slopes, on edges and in bushy groups. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Cistus creticus can grow in full sun or semi-shade exposure. It resists frost down to -12 ºC (10.4 ºF). They prefer well-drained, limestone soils. Planting is done in spring at a rate of 4 specimens per square meter. They resist drought very well; water moderately, always hoping that the soil has dried out. They do not need fertilizers. Prune lightly after flowering to keep it compact and strengthen the plant. They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess watering. They propagate by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings. |
Images of the shrub Cistus creticus or Pink rock-rose |
 Cistus creticus  Cistus creticus  Cistus creticus  Cistus creticus |