Rockrose
Cistus hybridus
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Aug 4, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Rockrose
Rockrose (Cistus × hybridus) is a mounding broadleaf evergreen shrub from the western Mediterranean bearing paper-thin white flowers with yellow centers profusely in spring and early summer. It excels in hot, dry, well-drained sites and tolerates poor soils, drought, and coastal conditions. In NE Florida zone 9b, it is at the edge of its heat-humidity tolerance; excellent drainage and good air circulation are essential to combat Florida's wet summers. Starting at $59.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Care essentials
Rockrose demands full sun for best flowering and growth. It will not perform well in shade. In NE Florida, a south- or west-facing site with excellent air circulation minimizes humidity-related disease issues.
Rockrose is drought tolerant once established and prefers dry to moderately dry conditions — excess water causes root rot. In NE Florida, avoid all supplemental irrigation once established; rely on natural rainfall and ensure the planting site drains rapidly after summer rains.
Plant in lean, sandy, well-drained soil; rich or amended soils cause lanky growth and reduce hardiness. Do not fertilize — excess nutrients are detrimental. Cistus is a Mediterranean plant that thrives with neglect; Florida's summer humidity is its primary challenge, so excellent drainage and airflow are critical.
Similar needs
Adam's Needle
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Beach Elder
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Beautyberry
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Buttonsage
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Chapman Oak
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Coral Bean
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Rockrose a good plant for St. Augustine?
Rockrose is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-4 feet × 5-6 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed June 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.