Rock rose 'Gold Prize' Cistus × hybridus 'Gold Prize' (v)

Water

Rockrose 'Gold Prize' requires moderate watering, especially during its growing season in the spring and summer. It's best to water this plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means providing approximately 1 gallon every week or two, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure good drainage. During the winter, reduce watering to every few weeks, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings, as the plant enters a dormant period.

Light

Rockrose 'Gold Prize' thrives in full sunlight and should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate some light shade, but flowering and foliage color are most vibrant when the plant is exposed to ample sunlight. Avoid deep shade locations, as they will negatively impact the plant's growth and flowering capabilities.

Temperature

Rockrose 'Gold Prize' is suitable for a wide range of temperatures, comfortably growing in regions where the temperature remains between 20°F and 100°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 80°F, where it will flourish with appropriate care. However, it is frost hardy and can withstand brief periods of colder temperatures down to around 20°F without significant damage.

Pruning

Prune Rockrose 'Gold Prize' to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Light pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. It's also beneficial to remove any dead or damaged wood at this time. Major pruning should occur every few years to keep the plant vigorous, but avoid cutting into old wood as it may not regenerate.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

The Rock Rose 'Gold Prize' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range from neutral to slightly alkaline. A mix incorporating sandy or gritty material is ideal, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Enrich the soil with organic matter to support growth.

Repotting

Rock Rose 'Gold Prize' should be repotted every two to three years to replenish the soil and give roots space to grow. They do not like to be disturbed too often, so ensure to repot only when necessary.

Humidity & Misting

The Rock Rose 'Gold Prize' prefers a low to moderate humidity environment. It is well-adapted to dry conditions and does not require high humidity to thrive.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and shelter from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Cistus × hybridus 'Gold Prize', commonly known as the Rock Rose 'Gold Prize', starts its life as a seed, which germinates in warm conditions after exposure to soil and moisture. The seedling stage soon follows, characterized by the emergence of primary leaves as it establishes a root system. The vegetative stage is next, where the plant exhibits rapid growth of stems and leaves and develops its trademark hairy, evergreen foliage. During the reproductive stage, typically in late spring to early summer, it produces showy yellow-centered, white flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, it sets seed, which are then dispersed by various means, including wind and wildlife. Finally, as a perennial, the Rock Rose 'Gold Prize' enters a period of dormancy in winter, only to regrow from the same root system the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• Cistus × hybridus 'Gold Prize', commonly known as Rock Rose, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is most successful when performed in late summer, allowing for enough time for the cuttings to establish roots before the onset of winter. To propagate Rock Rose using semi-hardwood cuttings, one would take cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length from the current year's growth. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the base of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone to enhance root development. The treated cutting can then be planted in a well-draining rooting medium and kept in a humid environment until roots have formed, which usually takes several weeks. After rooting, the new plants can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before being planted out in their final location.