Helianthemum Nummularium
Helianthemum nummularium
Helianthemum nummularium is a low-growing evergreen shrublet native to European chalk grasslands and rocky slopes. Its cheerful, rose-like blooms in yellow, pink, orange, and white symbolize the sun, warmth, and resilience in harsh conditions.
Cistaceae (Rock Rose family)
Late spring to early summer (May to July); individual flowers last only one day but new buds open continuously for several weeks
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: gaillardias and cactus (prickly pear)s also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The name Helianthemum comes from the Greek helios (sun) and anthemon (flower), literally meaning sun flower, reflecting its love of open, sunny positions and its solar appearance. While it does not carry the heavy folklore of many other European wildflowers, its presence on ancient chalk downlands and rocky slopes has made it an emblem of natural resilience and the beauty that thrives in difficult conditions. In rock gardening culture, it has been admired since the 19th century and numerous cultivars have received the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit. Its ephemeral blooms that open for only a single day have given it associations with the fleeting beauty of the present moment.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; requires at least 6 hours of direct sun daily for best flowering
Water
Drought tolerant once established; requires excellent drainage; rots easily in wet or heavy soils
Soil
Well-drained to dry, Alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5-8.0), Poor to moderately fertile, Sandy or rocky
Expert Growing Tips
Trim plants back by one third after flowering to keep them compact and encourage fresh growth
Plant in full sun with excellent drainage; avoid clay and waterlogged soils entirely
Mulch lightly with grit around the base to improve drainage and reflect warmth
Propagate from softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer for true-to-type named cultivars
Survives well in thin soils, including planting in short grass on chalk or limestone banks
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Rock gardens and alpine plantings
- Front of sunny borders and pathway edging
- Ground cover on sunny, dry banks and slopes
- Wall crevices and raised beds
- Container planting in free-draining compost
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Helianthemum Nummularium
Why does Helianthemum only flower for one day?
Each individual Helianthemum flower opens for just one day, a trait common to the Cistaceae family. However, the plant produces a continuous succession of buds over several weeks, keeping the plant in bloom for most of late spring and early summer.
How do I keep Helianthemum compact and flowering well?
Trim plants back by about one third immediately after the main flowering period ends. This prevents them from becoming woody and sprawling, encourages fresh compact growth, and often promotes a second smaller flush of blooms.
Is Helianthemum nummularium deer resistant?
Yes, sun rose is generally considered deer and rabbit resistant, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with wildlife browsing pressure.
What does the sun rose flower symbolize?
Helianthemum symbolizes warmth, joy, resilience, and solar energy. Its name literally means sun flower in Greek, and its ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils in full sun makes it a symbol of perseverance and positivity in adversity.
Can Helianthemum grow in shade?
No, Helianthemum nummularium requires full sun to flower well. In shady positions plants become leggy and flower poorly. It is best planted in the sunniest available spot with excellent drainage.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Gaillardia
Gaillardia × grandiflora (and other spp.)
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Cactus (Prickly Pear)
Opuntia spp.
Cactus flowers, particularly those of Prickly Pear, produce stunning blooms in vibrant colors despite their spiny protection. These remarkable flowers symbolize endurance, protection, and the beauty that can emerge from life's most challenging circumstances.
Bidens
Bidens ferulifolia
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