Halimium ocymoides (syn. Cistus algarvensis), the basil-leaved rock rose, is a species of flowering plant in the family Cistaceae, native to Portugal and Spain in the Iberian Peninsula, and northern Morocco in Northwest Africa. It is an erect evergreen shrub growing to 60 cm (24 in) tall by 100 cm (3 ft) wide, with woolly grey-green leaves and bright yellow flowers in spring. The flowers may have a dark brown blotch at the base of each petal.In cultivation this plant requires a sandy soil and full sun.
Basil-leaved rockrose shows strong resistance to disease and is usually not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of upkeep, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Basil-leaved rockrose is well suited for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not demand extensive plant-care experience.
How to keep Halimium Ocymoides.
Light
Basil-leaved rockrose comes from open habitats, such as sunny meadows and forest margins, where abundant light is present. It performs best in Full Sun but can also endure Partial Sun, adapting well to different lighting conditions.
Temperature
Basil-leaved rockrose shows strong adaptability to different climates, whether in scorching summers or cold winters. It nonetheless has a preferred temperature range for growth. If temperatures rise too high, the plant is vulnerable to heat and humidity stress, which can kill it. In areas where temperatures near the lower limit of its cold tolerance, taking insulation measures to protect the plant is important.
Fertilizer
The timing of fertilizing Basil-leaved rockrose is important. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly through early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth phases.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Halimium
- Family
- Cistaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-10
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 61 cm to 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Gray, Silver
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 3.05 cm to 5.08 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
- Native Area
- Morocco, Spain, Portugal
