Cistus ladanifer

Common name(s): common gum rockrose

Description: evergreen shrub; the primary source of commercial ladanum used in the perfume and cosmetics industries. A variable species distributed across the Mediterranean and the only white-flowered cistus species that has forms with maroon blotches on the petals. Narrow, aromatic foliage and large flowers in spring and summer. 

Height: to 5 ft. Spread: to 5 ft.

Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil

Uses: ornamental-firescaping, landscaping

Winter Hardiness: to 5 F and below

Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought