Cistus corbariensis - short-lived flowers

Biglad

This morning I was pleased to see that the cistus I got in October was flowering for the first time (x4 flowers). This evening all the petals dropped off. This photo was taken shortly before the final one bared all.

Is it normal for them to be so short-lived on a young plant?

Pianoplayer

Hi - glad it survived well! Yes, it is a characteristic of Cistus for each flower to only last a day or so. However, they produce loads of flowers (you've got loads of buds on yours) so you get a succession of flowers over weeks rather than a few long lasting flowers (if that makes sense).

As they don't like pruning, now is a good time to keep pinching out the tips.

Biglad

You are my cistus guru @Pianoplayer  

I was hoping that was the case as it is looking better since I took your re-potting advice.

I'll pinch out some more tips in the morning

Many thanks!

Pianoplayer

You're welcome!  I love them - they remind me of mediterranean holidays. They really like this hot weather.

Biglad

I wasn't expecting the flowers this morning and the sight of them drew an, "Oh wow"  

At some point I need to find a suitable spot in the ground for it. In the meantime, would I be able to take cuttings at some point this year? 

Ilikeplants

I have similar ones and a pink one too. All mine came from propagated cuttings. They are good so might do some more. Last year it was covered in ladybird larvae - very interesting.

Pianoplayer

Yes - good for cuttings. September is a good time so they root over winter. This YouTube video is good (probably a bit too detailed!).

https://youtu.be/ZmZB7ja_c9c

Biglad

Coincidentally, I found that video earlier @Pianoplayer. I've just taken a couple and will do some more at the end of the summer, when there is more growth to go at.

More new flowers this morning as well

Thanks again.