White Rock Rose
(Cistus salvifolius)

A small shrub growing to 1 m high by 1 m spread it has small, grey-green leaves and produces masses of white-pink flowers during spring. Tolerating a range of soil conditions, this is best sited where there is good drainage and full sun. Cistus need to grow in full sun to flower profusely but don’t seem to care too much about soil type. They are a great coastal plant because they don’t mind salt-laden winds and alkaline soils. Prune back by a third immediately after a flowering flush to keep compact. Although they are a grow-fast die-young plant, they are perfect along pathways to soften edges and among hardy fillers in a mixed bed.