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Orchid Rock Rose, Purple Rockrose
Cistus purpureus
This mounding to rounded evergreen shrub has long, dark green leaves that are fuzzy gray underneath. The fragrant, purple-pink, crape-like flowers have maroon red spots at the base of the petals and yellow centers. Buds cluster at the ends of the branches, but open one at a time. New growth starts out a red-purple color, turning woody and brown over time. Generally quite tough and drought tolerant, but somewhat sensitive to our low desert heat. Does best with some afternoon shade and protection from our hot summer winds. Trim lightly for shape in winter or early spring. Synonym: Cistus x purpureus.
- Plant type: Perennial, Shrub
- Maintenance level: Low
- Water requirement: Medium, Low
- Sun exposure: Full, Part Sun, Morning Sun
- Height range: 3–5 Feet
- Width range: 3–5 Feet
- Growth rate: Fast
- Seasonal habit: Evergreen
- Flower color: Pink, Yellow, Red, Purple
- Flower season: Spring, Summer
- General foliage color: Grey, Green
- Design style: Deer Resistant
- Hardiness cold tolerance: 15 °F
- Soil preference: Sand, Clay, Well Drained
- Canopy value: 13 ft²
- Native location: Mediterranean
- PH preference: Acidic, Neutral, Not Particular
- Sunset zones: 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
- USDA hardiness zone: 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b
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