Texas Native Spotlight: Pavonia aka Rock Rose!

If you’re looking for a hardy, beautiful, and beneficial plant to add to your garden, Pavonia lasiopetala—commonly known as Rock Rose—is a perfectly pink pick! With its cheerful pink flowers, impressive drought tolerance, and versatility, this native perennial is a gem for local landscapes.

Why Choose Rock Rose?

Rock Rose typically grows 2 to 4 feet tall and wide.  Like its native relative Turk’s Cap, it can be grown in lots of different areas in the landscape – very versatile! Its mini-hibiscus-like flowers bloom from spring through fall, and attract lots of hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. We planted Rock Rose in the front raised beds here at Gill’s back in February, and it’s been a show-stopper! 

Growing Tips for Our Area

• Soil:  Rock Rose loves well-drained soils. Excellent for sandy soil, raised beds, and pots. It can do well in heavy clay soil too, just amend your soil well with compost and plant high (on a slight mound).

• Sun:  Full sun is great, but it can tolerate some shade, especially from afternoon sun.

• Water:  Once established, it’s very drought-tolerant. Water young plants regularly to help roots develop, then it won’t need much attention.

• Pruning:  Light trimming after blooming keeps it tidy and encourages more flowers. Cut it back hard in February to refresh its shape.

Medicinal and Historical Uses

While not primarily a medicinal herb, Pavonia has traditionally been used in folk remedies. The mucilaginous leaves (meaning they have a soothing, gel-like texture when crushed) have been used to relieve minor skin irritations or sunburn, similar to aloe. Along with other plants in the mallow family (like Turk’s Cap and Hibiscus), it’s also been used in teas to ease respiratory issues and cough. 

Plant it with These Native Friends

Rock Rose plays well with others! Pair it with other heat-loving Texas natives for a stunning and sustainable garden. Try these companions for a rainbow of colors:

• Salvia greggii (Autumn Sage) – Hummingbird magnet with long-lasting blooms.

• Zexmenia (Wedelia acapulcensis var. hispida) – A sprawling yellow daisy-like flower that thrives in hot, dry areas.

• Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum) – Low-growing with sweet white flowers and a delightful fragrance.