Rock Rose × Halimiocistus 'Ingwersenii'

Water

The Halimium 'Ingwersenii', commonly known as Ingwersen's Halimium or Rock Rose, prefers a well-draining soil with dry to medium moisture. It should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In general, provide about 1 inch of water per week, adjusting for rainfall. During the growing season, ensure a consistent watering schedule, but reduce the amount in winter when the plant is dormant. Be mindful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Light

Rock Rose thrives in full sun conditions, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for your Halimium 'Ingwersenii' would be in a south-facing or west-facing garden where it can enjoy the bright light that promotes abundant flowering. If grown indoors, place it near a sunny window.

Temperature

Ingwersen's Halimium does well in a range of temperatures, surviving minimum temperatures down to about 10°F and maximum temperatures that typical summer conditions would provide. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 50°F and 70°F. Freezing temperatures can cause damage, so provide protection if needed.

Pruning

Pruning the Rock Rose is generally done to maintain its shape and to promote a more compact, bushy growth. Prune it lightly after flowering, usually in late spring or early summer, to remove spent flowers and any dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning as it may not recover well.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Rockrose 'Ingwersenii' thrives in well-drained, sandy or gritty soil with a pH that is slightly acidic to neutral. The best soil mix can be created with one part sand or perlite, one part garden soil, and one part compost. Ensure the compost is well-aged to avoid nutrient imbalances. The ideal soil pH for this plant ranges from 5.5 to 7.5.

Repotting

Rockrose 'Ingwersenii' is a low-maintenance plant that generally requires repotting only every 2 to 3 years. It's best to repot when the plant has outgrown its current pot or when the soil has degraded and needs refreshing. Use the recommended soil mix when repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Rockrose 'Ingwersenii' is adapted to a Mediterranean climate and tolerates dry air well. It does not require high humidity levels and will thrive in average room humidity, making it suitable for typical indoor environments. No specific humidity adjustments are necessary for this plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  For Rockrose 'Ingwersenii', bright indirect light, dry air, minimal watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun, well-drained soil, shelter from severe frost.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

× Halimiocistus 'Ingwersenii', more commonly known as Ingwersen's variety of the rock rose hybrid, begins its life as a seed that germinates in spring under the right conditions of warmth and soil moisture. The seedling stage follows where roots establish and shoots emerge, growing into a small bush with silver-green leaves. During the growing season, it enters the vegetative stage, producing branches and leaves, and increasingly becomes a more substantial shrub. The plant reaches maturity in a few years and begins its reproductive phase, characterized by the blossoming of its saucer-shaped, white to pale yellow flowers with a prominent maroon blotch at the base of each petal, typically from late spring to summer. After pollination, usually by insects attracted to the flowers, it produces fruit in the form of a capsule containing seeds. The life cycle can repeat when these seeds are dispersed and successfully germinate, while the parent plant may live and continue to reproduce for many years if conditions are favorable.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The × Halimiocistus 'Ingwersenii', commonly known as Halimiocistus 'Ingwersenii', can be propagated through semi-ripe cuttings during the late summer months. The most popular method for this plant involves taking cuttings that are about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long from healthy, non-flowering stems. The lower leaves are stripped off, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that the leafless part of the stem is buried. A clear plastic bag can be placed over the pot to maintain humidity, but it should be removed periodically to prevent mold growth. The pot should be kept in a warm, indirect light environment until roots have developed, which typically takes several weeks. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.