Sage-leaved Rock-rose
Cistus salviifolius
Also listed as Cistus apricus, Cistus arrigens
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A low-growing Mediterranean shrub with narrow, sage-like gray-green foliage and delicate white or pale pink flowers with yellow centers. Extremely drought-tolerant and ideal for dry, sunny gardens.
Why grow it
Sage-leaved Rock-rose offers reliable performance in water-limited settings where many ornamental shrubs struggle, making it useful for low-input Mediterranean or xeric gardens. Compared to other Cistus species, it produces a longer flowering season and maintains relatively compact growth without frequent pruning. Its narrow, aromatic foliage also provides textural variety among silver-leafed plants suited to similar conditions.
Watch out for
This species prefers well-draining soil and may decline in heavy clay or poorly drained sites even with reduced water inputs. Flowering can be sparse or inconsistent in humid climates or where afternoon shade limits light availability. Hard pruning after flowering helps maintain shape, but the plant does not regenerate reliably from old wood if severely cut back.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cistaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A low-growing Mediterranean shrub with narrow, sage-like gray-green foliage and delicate white or pale pink flowers with yellow centers. Extremely drought-tolerant and ideal for dry, sunny gardens.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Sage-leaved Rock-rose grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Sage-leaved Rock-rose offers reliable performance in water-limited settings where many ornamental shrubs struggle, making it useful for low-input Mediterranean or xeric gardens. Compared to other Cistus species, it produces a longer flowering season and maintains relatively compact growth without frequent pruning. Its narrow, aromatic foliage also provides textural variety among silver-leafed plants suited to similar conditions.
Watch out for
This species prefers well-draining soil and may decline in heavy clay or poorly drained sites even with reduced water inputs. Flowering can be sparse or inconsistent in humid climates or where afternoon shade limits light availability. Hard pruning after flowering helps maintain shape, but the plant does not regenerate reliably from old wood if severely cut back.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cistaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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