Common rock-rose (Helianthemum nummularium)
Care, watering, light and tips for Common rock-rose on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Cistaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Common rock-rose
Helianthemum nummularium, commonly known as common rock-rose, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial subshrub native to Europe. Its small, rose-like flowers, with crinkled and often iridescent petals, appear in a range of colors including yellow, orange, pink, and white, from late spring to mid-summer. It is ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, or as ground cover in dry and Mediterranean-style gardens.
Native range
Europe and North Africa
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, preferably sandy or gravelly, with a neutral to alkaline pH. It is highly drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be sparse; overwatering is its main enemy. Light pruning after flowering can encourage new growth and a more abundant bloom. Avoid heavy, wet soils, as these can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Common rock-rose
- Warning signs
- Wilted or dry leaves, woody stems without new shoots, yellowish or grayish foliage.
- First aid
- Move it to full sun if it's not there. Water only when the substrate is dry. Prune dry parts.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and lack of direct sun. It doesn't tolerate shade or waterlogging, which rots its roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the roots are not completely rotted and there are still green stems. It's very drought-resistant.