Rock Rose
Pavonia lasiopetala
Rock rose is a 2-3 foot tall, semi-woody, almost evergreen shrub, with leaves
remaining on the plant in a mild winter. The flowers are rose-pink and 2”
across. Flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon, except in
the shade. Plant will occasionally die back to the roots in very cold winters. It
blooms from March to Nov. It lives only 2-3 years, but freely reseeds.
Planting Sites: Well-drained sites, in dappled shade to full sun. Best sites have morning sun and afternoon shade.
Soil types include sand, loam, clay, and caliche.
Planting Instructions: Space plants 2-3 feet apart. Dig the hole slightly larger than, but the same depth as the
nursery container. Carefully remove plant from container and gently loosen any compacted or circling roots
around the root ball. Plant at the same depth as the soil in the container. Add 2 to 3 inches of mulch.
Watering Instructions: Water well after planting, using root stimulator according to directions. For at least 3
months, water deeply every 7-10 days to promote deep roots that will withstand drought. May skip a watering
after a rainfall of ½” to 1”. If planting in hot, dry summer, may need more frequent watering. High drought
tolerance.
Comments: Rock rose attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. It is moderately deer resistant.
Planting and care instructions provided by the Lindheimer Chapters of the
Native Plant Society of Texas.