About
Cistus laurifolius subsp. atlanticus is an evergreen shrub characterized by its bushy form, reaching heights and widths of up to 1 meter (39 inches). Its foliage consists of dark green leaves that are either oval or lanceolate in shape. Initially, the plant grows upright but gradually takes on a sprawling habit. During the summer months, it produces white flowers shaped like saucers, featuring a prominent cluster of bright yellow stamens on elongated stems. For optimal growth, this subspecies thrives in full sunlight and requires well-drained soil, especially during winter when conditions may be wetter. This variety is indigenous to North Africa and may exhibit less hardiness in the UK compared to the main species.
About the genus
Cistus consists of evergreen shrubs featuring simple, opposite leaves. They produce bowl-shaped flowers with five petals that can be white, pink, or purplish. Each flower lasts for just one day, blooming over an extended summer period.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
- Native to
- Morocco
- Fragrance
- Foliage
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grows well in poor, but well drained soil, in a sheltered site and full sun. The foliage may become chlorotic with age when the shrubs are grown on chalky soil.
- Pruning
- Pruning group 8 or pruning group 9 if necessary; they do not respond well to hard pruning so old leggy plants are best replaced. Pinch back young plants after flowering to encourage a bushy habit
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings in spring and by semi-ripe cuttings from midsummer to early autumn
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus