Cistus salviifolius 'Prostratus'
Cushion Sageleaf Rockrose
Description
Sageleaf rockrose. One of the more garden tolerant Cistus plants, this low growing rockrose has sage green leaves and a wide spreading habit of 6' or more. Early spring flowers are white with a yellow basal stain. Southern Europe native.
Maintenance Tips
Cistus salviifolius ‘Prostratus’ is a woody shrub from Mediterranean regions but is found in many California native gardens. It can grow 18"–30" tall and 4'-6' wide and is very well-behaved in most gardens if it is given the space to reach its mature height. This plant is highly appealing to bees, other pollinators, and soft-bodied pests like aphids. Instead of using pesticides to control these pests, it would be better to use a hard jet of water or even bring in ladybugs to treat the infestation. That will ensure that the beneficial insects can continue to enjoy the flowers.