Common Rock-rose
Helianthemum nummularium
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Description
Helianthemum nummularium, known as Common Rock-rose, is a low-growing, evergreen shrub native to Europe. It thrives in well-drained, sandy, and calcareous soils, often found in rocky regions. In agroecology, it serves as a ground cover in food forests, playing a crucial role in soil stabilization and erosion control. Its bright yellow flowers, blooming from late spring to early summer, attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity. Historically, it has been used in traditional European herbal medicine for its astringent properties. In regenerative agriculture, it is valued for its resilience in poor soils and its ability to suppress weeds, making it an excellent companion plant in guilds with species like lavender and thyme.
Growing Details
Common Rock-rose prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy soils. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching with gravel or coarse sand can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include lavender and thyme, which thrive in similar conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves for tea in early summer, and store them in a cool, dry place.
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Helianthemum nummularium</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe, particularly in rocky, calc
applicable geo region: Europe
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The leaves of Common Rock-rose can be used to make a mildly astringent tea. It is not widely consumed but can be a part of herbal blends.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Common Rock-rose has traditionally been used for its astringent properties, beneficial in treating mild respiratory issues and skin conditions. It can be prepared as a tea or tincture. Caution is advised as it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
health concerns: May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals when used topically.
other uses: The plant is effective as a ground cover for erosion control and is popular in rock gardens for its ornamental value.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Helianthemum nummularium
common names: Common Rock-rose; Sun Rose; Yellow Rock-rose
family: Cistaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Helianthemum
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 10 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.3 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Light (Sandy)
pH preference:
Alkaline
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Common Rock-rose prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy soils. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching with gravel or coarse sand can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include lavender and thyme, which thrive in similar conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves for tea in early summer, and store them in a cool, dry place.
Potential Disturbances: Generally pest-free, but may occasionally suffer from aphids. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings to control aphid populations. Avoid overly damp conditions to prevent fungal diseases. Companion planting with garlic or chives can help deter pests.
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