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Shrubs
Cistus × cyprius
common gum cistus
A strong-growing small evergreen shrub with glossy, narrow-lanceolate leaves dark green above, grey beneath, and white flowers 8cm in width, with a deep red blotch at base of each petal
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Cistaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Cistus are evergreen shrubs with simple, opposite leaves and 5-petalled, bowl-shaped, white, pink or purplish flowers, each lasting a single day, over a long period in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SW Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Will grow well in poor soils, but requires full sun and shelter
Propagation
Propagate by seed or softwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Mediterranean climate plants
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Banks and slopes
- Ground cover
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
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