Cistus- Worthy Shrub

CISTUS SALVIIFOLIOUS

CISTUS CRETICUS

CISTUS PURPUREUS

Perennial flowering shrubs containing about 20 species found on dry or rocky soils throughout the Mediterranean region, from Morocco and Portugal thru the Middle East, and also the Canary Islands. 4' x 4' or smaller evergreen plants with showy 5-petaled flowers ranging from white to purple and dark pink, in a few species with a conspicuous dark red spot at the base of each petal. With its many hybrids and cultivars it is commonly encountered as a garden flower.The name Cistus is from the Greek for "Box," alluding to the square shape of the seed capsules.

I have been a fan of Cistus actually the whole rockrose family for years. Some of the best drought tolerant plants that you could ever plant in your gardens. I planted the Cistus salviifolious in place of the wonderful Matilija Poppy that I always wanted. There is a poppy planted down the street and that plant gets out of control. The number one need is lots of water, SORRY. I came across the salviifolious variety (first photograph) and stated on the tag that it is a substitute for the Matilija Poppy if you were wanting that style of flower. Worked for me........Include any of the rockroses in your gardens, they will not let you down.

USDA hardiness zone 6 to zone 9