Cistus laurifolius
laurel-leaved cistus
Overview
Cistus laurifolius is an evergreen shrub in the Cistaceae family, growing 4–7 feet (1.2–2.1 m) tall and 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m) wide — among the largest and hardiest of the cultivated rockroses. Leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate, 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) long, dark green above and grey-white tomentose beneath, with a leathery texture and slightly sticky surface from resinous exudates. The epithet laurifolius references the resemblance to laurel (Laurus) leaves. Flowers are 2.5–3 inches (6–8 cm) across, pure white with five crinkled, tissue-paper-textured petals and a prominent central boss of golden-yellow stamens. Individual flowers last a single day but are produced in large numbers over a 3–5 week period. The species is the most cold-hardy of the commonly grown cistus, tolerating temperatures to approximately 5°F (-15°C) — significantly hardier than C. albidus or C. x purpureus. Native to dry, rocky, calcareous habitats across southern Europe at elevations up to 6,500 feet (2,000 m), which accounts for its greater cold tolerance. The aromatic resin (labdanum) on the foliage has a warm, balsamic scent detectable in warm weather. Short-lived — 10–15 years is typical before plants become leggy and open. Does not regenerate from hard pruning into old wood.
Native Range
Cistus laurifolius is native across southern Europe, from the Iberian Peninsula through southern France, Corsica, Sardinia, Italy, the Balkans, and into Turkey and Morocco. It grows on dry, rocky, calcareous slopes, in garigue and maquis, at elevations of 1,000–6,500 feet (300–2,000 m) — higher than most other Cistus species.Suggested Uses
Planted as a specimen, informal hedge, or mass planting on dry banks and slopes, spaced 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5 m) apart. The hardiest Cistus for the Pacific Northwest — tolerates zone 7b conditions with adequate drainage. Effective in Mediterranean-style gardens, coastal plantings, and gravel gardens. The dark evergreen foliage provides year-round structure.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4' - 7'
Width/Spread4' - 6'
Reaches mature size in approximately 4 years
Bloom Information
White flowers open from late May through June, with each flower lasting a single day — opening in the morning and shedding petals by evening. A well-established plant produces dozens of flowers daily over a 3–5 week period. Pollinated by bees visiting for pollen. Seed capsules develop by August.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Pure white with yellow stamensFoliage Description
Dark green above, grey-white beneathGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, lean, neutral to alkaline soil with a pH of 6.5–8.0. Space 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5 m) apart. Tolerates poor, rocky, and calcareous soils. Do not fertilise — excess nutrients produce lax growth. Water sparingly after establishment; drought-tolerant once rooted. Ensure sharp winter drainage — waterlogged soil is more damaging than cold. In the Pacific Northwest, this is the most reliable Cistus for zones 7b–8, tolerating the wet winters better than most species if drainage is adequate. Site on a south-facing slope or raised bed.Pruning
Prune lightly after flowering in late June — trim new growth by one-third to maintain a compact shape. Do not cut into old, leafless wood, as regrowth is unreliable. Replace plants when they become leggy and open (typically after 10–15 years). Tip-prune young plants in the first 2 years to encourage dense branching.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
summer
Maintenance Level
very lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 7 gallons