Cistus × purpureus – Rock Rose with Striking Pink Flowers
Cistus × purpureus, commonly known as the Rock Rose, is a beautiful evergreen shrub valued for its vivid flowers and Mediterranean character. In late spring and early summer, large papery blooms open in shades of rich pink, each marked with dramatic deep maroon blotches at the base of the petals.
Although individual flowers last only a day, they are produced continuously over several weeks, creating a lively and colourful display. The blooms stand out against narrow grey-green leaves that release a subtle resinous scent when warmed by the sun.
With its naturally rounded habit and drought-tolerant nature, Cistus × purpureus is particularly well suited to sunny borders, gravel gardens, and coastal planting schemes. It blends effortlessly with Mediterranean-style plants such as lavender, rosemary, and santolina.
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, this hardy shrub requires very little maintenance once established. It dislikes heavy winter wet but performs exceptionally well in free-draining soils and warm, sheltered sites.
Bright, resilient, and wonderfully easy to grow, Cistus × purpureus is a superb choice for adding vibrant early summer colour to sunny gardens.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Fresh evergreen foliage provides structure.
Late Spring–Early Summer: Bright pink flowers bloom freely.
Summer: Dense grey-green foliage remains attractive.
Winter: Evergreen leaves maintain year-round presence.
Key Features
Bright pink flowers – Striking maroon centres.
Mediterranean character – Perfect for sunny gardens.
Evergreen foliage – Year-round structure.
Drought tolerant – Thrives in dry conditions.
Low maintenance – Easy-care shrub.
Perfect For
Sunny borders – Colourful summer interest.
Gravel gardens – Ideal for free-draining soils.
Coastal planting – Tolerates exposed conditions.
Mediterranean gardens – Complements drought-tolerant plants.
Wildlife gardens – Attractive to pollinators.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Full sun; warm, sheltered position preferred.
Soil: Very well-drained soil; dislikes heavy or waterlogged ground.
Hardiness: Hardy in most UK gardens with good drainage.
Care: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
