Horticultural cultivar of the Cistaceae family, obtained from hybrids mainly derived from Helianthemum nummularium and related Mediterranean species. It is one of the oldest garden helianthemums, appreciated for the exceptional intensity of its color.
It forms a spreading and dense bushy clump, 20 to 30 cm in height, with semi-woody stems at the base. The foliage, evergreen, consists of small, narrowly lanceolate, gray-green and slightly tomentose leaves, which enhance the brightness of the flowers throughout the season.
The flowers are bright orange-red with coppery reflections, centered on a well-supplied golden yellow stamen heart. The transition from the greenish, hairy flower bud to the fully open flower is particularly striking. Each flower lasts only one day, but their continuous renewal maintains a persistent fiery effect on the plant.
Its flowering in cultivation extends from May to July, with sometimes a slight resurgence at the end of summer if the plant is pruned after the first wave of flowering.
It requires well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil, in full sun. It tolerates summer drought well and withstands limestone. Shortening the stems by a third after flowering maintains a compact habit and promotes the longevity of the plant.