Grow Me Instead Grow Me Instead
Skip Navigation Links

Rockrose

Rockrose
Photo: Lorna Rose
Invasive Plant
Rockrose
Cistus spp. (inc. incanus, ladanifer, monspeliensis, salvifolius)
 

Small to medium-sized, evergreen, flowering plants. There are several varieties in cultivation, however few of the natural forms are considered weedy in Victoria. The flowers are individually short-lived and come in a variety of colours including white, pink, mauve or reddish-purple. They thrive in most situations.

 

HOW IT SPREADS

  • These weedy Cistus species are prolific growers and seeders. They tend to invade disturbed bush areas and are listed as a major threat to grazing areas.
 

Many Cistus species are also known to affect asthma sufferers.

 
 
Grow Me Instead
 

 

Alternative Plants

Gardenia
Photo: Macbird Floraprint
Alternative Plant Gardenia
Gardenia augusta 'Florida'
Trees and Shrubs
 

A stunning evergreen shrub to 0.9 m. It has dark green glossy leaves and exquisite, highly fragrant white flowers from late spring to early summer. Spot flowers often continue throughout the autumn months. This species prefers full-sun or part-shade, and thrives in rich organic well-drained soils. To maintain compact growth, keep trimmed after flowering. Apply adequate moisture during the warmer months.

Grevillea
Photo: Immij
Alternative Plant Grevillea
Grevillea species and cultivars
Trees and Shrubs
 

There are a number of highly recommended hybrid grevilleas that will develop into small trees. Masses of spring and summer flowers, including pink and white 'Pink Surprise', or 'Pink Flush', or cream 'Moonlight' and orange/gold 'Honey gem' provide nectar for native birds. Grevilleas are fast-growing and require light pruning after flowering to encourage dense growth. They can be planted as either a screen or feature specimen and require well drained soils. Ask your local garden centre for advice about the best Grevillea for your garden.

Red Robin-breast Bush
Photo: ANBG
Alternative Plant Red Robin-breast Bush
Melaleuca lateritia
Trees and Shrubs
 

An erect and sometimes open shrub rarely exceeding 1.5 m. Spikes to 9 cm long of orangered flowers, borne on the older wood on small lateral growths. Normally the main flowering period is summer, however it can extend into autumn and even early winter. Attractive to honeyeaters in the garden. A great specimen shrub or planted as a group. Regularly prune to maintain compact habit.

 
Grow Me Instead