Cistus creticus L.

Key facts

Flower colour : pink
Flower diameter : 4.5 – 5cm
Height & Spread : variable to 75cm
Habit : upright or rounded

Notes : a very variable species widespread throughout the eastern Mediterranean area. Many subspecific taxa have been proposed.

Subspecies : subsp. creticus has wavy-edged leaves with sticky hairs, exuding ladanum. Some authorities recognize other subspecies (corsicus) and forms.

Cultivars : ‘Lasithi’ (see above) is compact, rounded. Albino forms (f. albus) are known, including ‘Tania Compton’.