Narrow-leaved Rock Rose (Helianthemum ledifolium)

Narrow-leaved Rock Rose

Helianthemum ledifolium

Drought-tough rock rose with cheerful golden blooms. Low-growing evergreen shrub; common name: narrow-leaved rock rose.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full sun exposure for abundant flowering; tolerates reflected summer heat without scorching
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C for short periods; thrives in summer temperatures up to 35°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear, gray-green foliage with woolly undersides to reduce moisture loss
  • Flower: Bright yellow, five-petaled, daisy-like blooms that open only in full sun
  • Stem: Woody, trailing stems forming dense, low-growing mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply every 7–10 days during active growth periods

Fertilization

Light application of balanced, slow-release feed at the start of growing season. Over-fertilization can reduce flowering and promote leggy growth

Crushed eggshell powder:Crush dried eggshells to fine powder, mix into topsoil in early spring to improve drainage and add mild calcium supplementation
Pruning
  • Trim back leggy stems by one-third after flowering to maintain compact, mounded form
  • Remove dead or damaged foliage in early spring to encourage new growth
  • Thin overcrowded mats every 2–3 years to improve airflow and prevent disease
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens, slope stabilization, xeriscaping; ornamental flowering plant