Cistus ×purpureus (orchid rock-rose)

Japanese name: キスツス プルプレウス
Scientific name: Cistus ×purpureus

[Overview]
An evergreen shrub 0.5–1 m tall, a hybrid of Cistus creticus and C. ladanifer.
Sometimes it reaches 1.8 m.
It grows densely and forms a rounded shape.
The stems are reddish and at first covered with sticky hairs.
The leaves are simple and opposite, lanceolate, 3–6 cm long and about 2 cm wide, grayish, with margins that are often wavy.
There is no leaf stalk.
The cymes at the stem tips bear flowers in threes.
The flowers are 8–10 cm across, deep pink, with 4–5 petals and a dark crimson blotch at the base.
The petals are much wrinkled and wavy.
Each flower withers in a day, but flowers open one after another.

[Cultivation]
Propagate by cuttings.
Sandy, dry soil with good sun, drainage, and ventilation is suitable.
It dislikes heat and humidity, so care is needed especially in summer, and potted plants are best moved to a place out of the rain.
Take care not to overwater; for potted plants, water thoroughly when the soil dries, and for plants in the ground, rainfall is sufficient.
It is best fertilized sparingly; apply a small amount of slow-release fertilizer in winter.
Prune only to thin out crowded branches and lightly tidy the shape, and avoid hard pruning.
There are no particular pests or diseases.

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