Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Helianthemum ‘Ben Fhada’
Ben Fhada Rock Rose

- 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.
