Overview

Cistus ladanifer is a shrub in the genus Cistus, part of the Cistaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Cistus ladanifer grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include borders, mediterranean gardens and drought-tolerant gardens. It is native to Western Mediterranean region.

About

Cistus ladanifer is a species of flowering plant in the family Cistaceae. It is native to the western Mediterranean region.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Cistus ladanifer

About the genus

Cistus is a genus of flowering plants in the rockrose family Cistaceae, containing about 34 species and a similar number of natural hybrids. They are perennial shrubs found on dry or rocky soils throughout the Mediterranean region, from Morocco, Spain, Italy, Greece, through to the Middle East, and also on the Canary Islands.

Wikipedia contributors, "Cistus", CC BY-SA 4.0Cistus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cistus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy
Soil moisture
Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Exposure
Full sun
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Cistus ladanifer size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Shrub
Height
1.5 m
Suggested uses
Borders, Mediterranean gardens, drought-tolerant gardens
Native to
Western Mediterranean region
Fragrance
Sticky, resinous, aromatic

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cistus ladanifer

Cultivation
Prefers well-drained soils, drought tolerant once established, avoid waterlogging
Pruning
Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
Propagation
Seed, semi-ripe cuttings

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Cistus ladanifer?

Prefers well-drained soils, drought tolerant once established, avoid waterlogging.

Where is the best place to plant Cistus ladanifer?

Cistus ladanifer prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Cistus ladanifer need?

Cistus ladanifer grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Cistus ladanifer?

Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.

How big does Cistus ladanifer grow?

Cistus ladanifer reaches a height of 1.5 m.

Is Cistus ladanifer hardy in the UK?

Cistus ladanifer has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Cistus ladanifer?

Seed, semi-ripe cuttings.

More in the Cistus genus

Browse all Cistus