Overview
Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi' is a matforming, spreading branched shrub in the genus Helianthemum, part of the Cistaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or gritty soil soils and neutral to alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include rock gardens, borders and ground cover.
About
A low-growing, spreading evergreen shrub with small, grey-green leaves and bright yellow flowers with a red center, blooming in late spring to summer.
About the genus
Helianthemum, known as rock rose, sunrose, rushrose, or frostweed, is a genus of about 114 species of flowering plants in the family Cistaceae. They are widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere, especially in the Mediterranean.
Wikipedia contributors, "Helianthemum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Helianthemum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Helianthemum
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or gritty soil
- Soil pH
- neutral to alkaline
- Soil moisture
- dry to medium
- Aspect
- south-facing
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- shrub
- Habit
- Matforming, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- rock gardens, borders, ground cover
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered position; drought tolerant once established.
- Pruning
- Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
- Propagation
- semi-ripe cuttings in summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi'?
Prefers well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered position; drought tolerant once established.
Where is the best place to plant Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi'?
Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi' need?
Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi' grows best in well-drained and sandy or gritty soil soil. It prefers neutral to alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to medium.
How do I prune Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi'?
Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Is Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi' hardy in the UK?
Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Helianthemum 'Ben Ledi'?
Semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
