Cistus ladanifer 'Paladin'

RHS Plant Profile
gum cistus 'Paladin'

Synonyms

Cistus 'Paladin'
Cistus 'Paladin' C23A

Shrubs

An upright evergreen shrub to 2m high, with linear to lance shaped, sticky, dark green leaves that are grey-green underneath, and aromatic in warm weather. Produces solitary white flowers in summer, to 10cm across and with dark red marks at the base of the petals

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical 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
Accepted

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