Grey-leaved cistus (Cistus albidus)

Grey-leaved cistus

Grey-leaved cistus (Cistus albidus) is a woody, evergreen shrub that will grow to 91 cm tall and 91 cm wide. Foliage is soft and velvety with grayish-white leaves that are covered with fine hairs. Clusters of purplish-pink, crinkled flowers bloom in spring. Flowers have yellow centers with dozens of orange stamens to attract bees and other pollinating insects.

Scientific classification

Species

Grey-leaved cistus (Cistus albidus)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

4 cm to 6 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Purple, White, Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Grey-leaved cistus

Distribution of Grey-leaved cistus

Distribution Map

Grey-leaved cistus is native to the Mediterranean region, well-established across southern Europe and the northern edges of Africa. Though originating from this warm, coastal area, grey-leaved cistus has also been successfully cultivated in similar climates beyond its natural range, adapting to locales with comparable environmental conditions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rocky places, open pine forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

Grey-leaved cistus blooms out flowers with five thin petals. The petals naturally take on the appearance of wrinkled pink paper. Ironically, the essential oil of the grey-leaved cistus is added to some cosmetic products intended to help smooth out wrinkles in the skin.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Grey-leaved cistus, including the following common varieties :

Rock rose 'Peggy Sammons'Rock rose 'Sunset'

Care Guide for Grey-leaved cistus

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Grey-leaved cistus, native to the Mediterranean, thrives in dry conditions with minimal watering, requiring only once every 2-3 weeks after establishment. It prefers sunlight with occasional moisture and adapts well to short droughts, making it suitable for low-maintenance outdoor growth in similar climates.

Fertilize: Grey-leaved cistus requires balanced, slow-release fertilizers in spring to promote robust growth and blooms. Feed quarterly, increasing in summer and decreasing in winter. Avoid over-fertilization; use light doses to prevent root burn. Apply liquid fertilizers carefully and wear gloves for protection.

Pruning: Grey-leaved cistus is an evergreen shrub with grey-green leaves and pinkish-purple flowers. Prune in late spring after flowering to encourage growth, remove dead branches, and thin out dense areas for better airflow. Use clean tools to prevent disease, as heavy pruning can stress the plant.

Propagation: Grey-leaved cistus prefers well-drained soil and can be propagated from semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer. Use a perlite and peat mix for planting, and consider rooting hormone for better results. Once established, transfer rooted cuttings to individual pots before final planting.

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