← Back to Helianthemum ‘Ben Fhada’

Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers

Helianthemum ‘Ben Fhada’

Ben Fhada Rock Rose

Helianthemum ‘Ben Fhada’
Family
Cistaceae
Height
8 to 12 inches
Width
18 to 24 inches
Flower color
Golden yellow with orange eye
Foliage color
Gray-green
Bloom time
Late spring to early summer
Light
Full sun
Water
Low, drought tolerant
Maintenance
Low; occasional pruning after blooming may encourage more compact growth
Growing zone
USDA Zones 5 to 8
Wildlife
Attracts bees and other pollinators

About this plant

Helianthemum 'Ben Fhada', commonly known as Rock Rose, is a low-growing, evergreen perennial prized for its cheerful yellow flowers with orange eyes. Blooming from late spring through early summer, the bright, cup-shaped flowers are carried in abundance, creating a sunny, vibrant display in garden borders or rock gardens. Each bloom lasts only a day, but the plant produces such a profusion of flowers that it remains in bloom for several weeks.

This cultivar is a result of breeding efforts aimed at creating a hardier, more resilient variety of Helianthemum, combining both ornamental appeal and adaptability. 'Ben Fhada' is particularly popular in dry, sunny garden settings, where its drought tolerance and vibrant flowers make it a standout. Its attractive foliage adds a year-round textural contrast, making it an excellent choice for gardens looking to extend interest beyond the flowering season.

Works well in

Rock Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Mediterranean Gardens · Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Candytuft · Stonecrop · Lilacs · Blue fescue · Lavender · Red hot poker

Design tip

Plant this sun-loving groundcover between boulders or along gravel paths where broad drifts can soften hard edges. Combine silver, blue, and upright companions nearby to create layered plantings that remain colorful and textural long after the flowering display has finished.