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Orchid Rockrose Wikimedia Commons
Cistaceae

Orchid Rockrose

Cistus purpureus

Resilience and beauty in adversity.

Family
Cistaceae
Genus
Cistus
Native to
Southern Europe, Mediterranean
Bloom season
Spring, Summer
Type
Evergreen Shrub
Height
3-5 feet
Sunlight
Full Sun
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy
Water
Low
Hardiness
8-11
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Each flower lasts only a single day but the plant produces blooms continuously for weeks.
  • Orchid rockrose thrives in poor, rocky soils where many other plants cannot survive.
  • The petals have a crinkled, tissue-paper-like texture that adds to their charm.
  • This hybrid originated as a cross between Cistus ladanifer and Cistus creticus.
  • It produces a fragrant resin called labdanum, historically used in perfumery.

Color meanings

0

Endurance

1

Popular favor

2

Hardiness

Uses

  • Ornamental gardening
  • Xeriscaping
  • Erosion control
  • Perfumery