The Temperate Database is in the process of being updated, with new records being added and old ones being checked and brought up to date where necessary. This record has not yet been checked and updated.

Common Name: Common Rockrose

General Information

Helianthemum nummularium is a

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

Europe, including Britain, south and east to Spain and Iran in W. Asia.

Habitat

Basic grassland and scrub, to 600 metres[].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	0.50 m
Growth Rate	Fast
Pollinators	Insects, self
Self-fertile	Yes

Cultivation Details

Requires an open sunny position in a light well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 8[].
Plants are hardy to at least -10°c[].
A vigorous plant suitable for the rock garden, crevices in walls or gravel beds[]. Plants are short-lived, though, soon becoming leggy or sparse, and require fairly frequent replacement[].
The flowers only open in bright sunshine[].
Plants resent root disturbance and should be placed in their permanent positions as soon as possible[].
A polymorphic species[], there are some named forms that have been selected for their ornamental value[].
Plants are generally pest and disease-free[]. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The plant is used in Bach flower remedies - the keywords for prescribing it are 'Terror', 'Panic' and 'Extreme fright'[]. It is also one of the five ingredients in the 'Rescue remedy'[].

Other Uses

A prostrate growing plant, it can be used as a ground cover[].

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 6 - 8cm with a heel, late summer in a sandy soil in a frame[].