Cistus Corbariensis Hybrid Rock Rose

Cistus Corbariensis or Hybrid Rock Rose
Cistus Corbariensis is an AGM winning evergreen rock rose with white flowers. It suits a well-drained slope or a rock garden. Cistus originate from the Mediterranean and are more commonly known as sun roses or rock roses. The Corbariensis variety is a hybrid between Cistus Populifolius and Cistus Salviifolius. It’s one of the hardiest rock roses. 

The foliage is evergreen with dark oval wavy-margined leaves that reach 5 cms in length covering its reddish stems. In spring, crimson buds appear across the shrub and open to paper-like pure white flowers with bee-attracting yellow centres. Each bloom only lasts a few days but they are so prolific the plant is covered during June and July. If you have a dry border, or an area that basks in full sun, rock roses are a good choice as they can cope with the heat there.

Height And Spread of Cistus Corbariensis
Cistus Corbariensis will reach a maximum height of a metre and spread across the same. It can be kept smaller with a gentle yearly prune. 

How Hardy Is Cistus Corbariensis
Cistus Corbariensis is a particularly hardy hybrid rock rose that can cope with windy conditions and heat but it struggles with frost. It’s best to plant this shrub in a sheltered spot. Rock roses are rarely bothered by pests. 

How To Use Cistus Corbariensis
This is the perfect choice for a sun-drenched bank or a tricky slope as hybrid rock rose enjoys well-drained soils. It also does well in a rock or gravel garden and as part of a sunny mixed border. Pollinators adore the free-flowering blooms so it also suits a low maintenance sunny wildlife garden too.  

How To Care For Cistus Corbariensis
Hybrid rock roses need little attention once established. They thrive in poor, sandy soils that are well-drained and can cope with some chalk. 
One of the most important aspects is enough sun. A south or west facing position is best. Cistus Corbariensis is not reliably frost hardy and will need a sheltered spot. Cover with fleece if minus temperatures are predicted.
You do not have to prune a hybrid rock rose but you can gently cut back branches after flowering to maintain the shape. Do this each year to create a bushy shrub as it doesn’t like hard pruning. A thick layer of mulch around the roots in spring seals in moisture and prevents weed competition.