Rockroses hail from the Mediterranean region and fortunately grow exceptionally well in our mild climate. These stalwart evergreens are famed for their conspicuous, papery single flowers, resembling wild rose blossoms. Though they last only a day, they arrive in such profusion, carpeting the ground beneath, that one can count on color for 2 or 3 months. Fast growing and appreciative of well-drained sites, they tolerate drought, poor soil, ocean winds, salt spray and even desert heat. Cistus vary from low spreaders to tall imposing bushes, and are terrific for informal hedging and screens.