Cistus, commonly known as Rock Rose, is a sun-loving evergreen shrub admired for its vibrant, papery flowers and aromatic foliage. Blooming from late spring to midsummer, the flowers come in shades of white, pink, or purple, often with striking yellow or maroon centres. These delicate-looking blooms are short-lived, but new flowers appear daily, ensuring weeks of colour. The small, leathery leaves have a resinous scent and form a dense, bushy habit that makes Cistus ideal for Mediterranean-style borders, rockeries, or coastal gardens.
Cistus thrives in dry, poor soils and is incredibly drought-tolerant, making it a perfect low-maintenance choice for sunny, well-drained sites. Its compact size and free-flowering nature bring reliable beauty and a touch of the exotic to even the most challenging garden conditions.