Overview
Helianthemum canariense is a matforming, bushy, spreading branched shrubs in the genus Helianthemum, part of the Cistaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Helianthemum canariense grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include gravel garden, rock garden, wildlife gardens and banks and slopes.
About
Helianthemum canariense is a cultivar of the Helianthemum genus, which comprises evergreen shrubs that can be bushy or spreading with small, paired leaves. This matforming, bushy, and spreading branched shrub thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, across a range of pH levels. Suitable for gravel and rock gardens, as well as wildlife gardens and banks, it is hardy to UK zone H4 and can be planted in both exposed and sheltered locations. Propagation is by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early 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
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Helianthemum canariense size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs, Alpine Rockery
- Habit
- Matforming, Bushy, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Gravel garden, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens, Banks and slopes
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Helianthemum canariense
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Helianthemum canariense?
Helianthemum canariense prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Helianthemum canariense need?
Helianthemum canariense is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Helianthemum canariense hardy in the UK?
Helianthemum canariense 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 Helianthemum canariense?
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
