CISTUS ladanifer

Evergreen - sticky, lance-shaped, aromatic, dark-green leaves to 10cm (4in) long.

Red - with red stain at base

White

Height - 2m (6½ft)

Spread - 1.5m (5ft)

Medium shrub - Typically grow to around 4-6 feet in height - upright habit. Flowers, to 10cm (4in) across have yellow centres.

Hardy - average winter - Hardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -10°C (14°F)

Full sun - sheltered site.

Additional Features - Good to know - an oleo-resin obtained from the leaves is used as a flavouring. Also used in the perfume industry where it is used as an acceptable substitute for ambergris.

Medicinal properties - Labdanum is an expectorant used for the treatment of catarrh and has antibiotic effects.

Pests & Diseases - none.

Place of origin - southwestern Europe to northern Africa.

Hardiness - Frost hardy (down to -5) -

Scented Plants - Scented foliage - leaves exude a sweet, balsamic smell most evident in early morning in summer.

Seasonal Interest - Summer

Soil Conditions - Well drained, dry, poor to moderately fertile soil - generally lime tolerant, but can become chlorotic on chalky soils.

Wildlife - Butterfly friendly

Rabbit Resistant