Cistus creticus subsp. incanus
hoary cistus
A compact evergreen shrub to 1m high, with deeply veined, grey green ovate leaves with lightly wavy margins. Produces clusters of saucer-shaped, pale lilac pink flowers with yellow stamens in summer
Other common names
rose cistusSynonyms
Cistus villosus 'Incanus'Cistus polymorphus
see moreCistus incanus
Cistus incanus subsp. incanus
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink Purple | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
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
- S Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in poor to moderately fertile, well drained soil, in a sheltered position in full sun. Plant out when danger of frosts has passed. Generally lime-tolerant, but may become chlorotic on very chalky soils
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe, or by softwood cuttings in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pruning group 8 or 9. Pinch back after flowering to maintain a bushy habit; does not respond well to hard pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.