Overview
Cistus 'Sunset' is a bushy, spreading branched shrub in the genus Cistus, part of the Cistaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cistus 'Sunset' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and mediterranean gardens.
About
Cistus 'Sunset' is a cultivar of the Cistus genus, a group of perennial shrubs in the rockrose family Cistaceae native to dry or rocky soils of the Mediterranean region. This shrub thrives in full sun and sheltered positions, preferring well-drained soil with dry to medium moisture levels. It is hardy to UK zone H4 and is suitable for borders, rock gardens, and Mediterranean-themed gardens. Once established, Cistus 'Sunset' is drought tolerant and benefits from light pruning after flowering to maintain its shape. The plant is mildly fragrant and can be propagated by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
About the genus
Cistus is a genus of flowering plants in the rockrose family Cistaceae, containing about 34 species and a similar number of natural hybrids. They are perennial shrubs found on dry or rocky soils throughout the Mediterranean region, from Morocco, Spain, Italy, Greece, through to the Middle East, and also on the Canary Islands.
Wikipedia contributors, "Cistus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cistus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cistus
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- dry to medium
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Cistus 'Sunset' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- shrub
- Habit
- Bushy, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- borders, rock gardens, Mediterranean gardens
- Fragrance
- mildly fragrant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cistus 'Sunset'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; drought tolerant once established.
- Pruning
- Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape.
- Propagation
- semi-ripe cuttings in summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cistus 'Sunset'?
Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; drought tolerant once established.
Where is the best place to plant Cistus 'Sunset'?
Cistus 'Sunset' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cistus 'Sunset' need?
Cistus 'Sunset' grows best in well-drained soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays dry to medium.
How do I prune Cistus 'Sunset'?
Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape.
Is Cistus 'Sunset' hardy in the UK?
Cistus 'Sunset' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Cistus 'Sunset'?
Semi-ripe cuttings in summer.