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Cistus × cyprius
  • RHS AGM

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

Synonyms
Cistus ladanifer misapplied
Cistus grandiflorus

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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Red White Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Cistaceae
Native to the UK
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

Pruning group 8 or pruning group 7

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus

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