Laurel-leaf cistus (Cistus laurifolius, Sp. Pl.: 523 (1753))

Family: Cistaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 523 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Cistus

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. Europe to Türkiye

Description

Laurel-leaf cistus, scientifically known as Cistus laurifolius, is a captivating plant renowned for its attractive foliage and delicate blooms. Ordained with the authority of Linnaeus, as cited in “Species Plantarum” in 1753, this perennial shrub has sustained its botanical identity over the centuries.

Native to the sunny climates of Southern Europe and Türkiye, the laurel-leaf cistus thrives in arid and semi-arid environments where it can bask in abundant sunlight. As a proud member of the Cistaceae family, it shares kinship with many other hardy, drought-resistant species.

The laurel-leaf cistus is distinguished by its robust, evergreen leaves that bear a close resemblance to those of the laurel, hence its common name. These leaves not only serve as a visual delight but also play a crucial role in minimizing water loss, an adaptation that allows the plant to survive in dry conditions.

Springtime brings a burst of charm to the laurel-leaf cistus as it adorns itself with an array of paper-like, white flowers, each centered with a splash of yellow stamens. These blossoms attract a variety of pollinators, contributing to the biodiversity of their native habitats. However, the plant’s beauty is ephemeral, as each flower often lasts only a single day—a brief yet mesmerizing display.

Beyond its ornamental appeal, Cistus laurifolius is valued for its resilience and its role in preventing soil erosion, making it an excellent choice for landscaping in challenging environments. Its ability to thrive with minimal care further underscores its popularity among gardeners seeking low-maintenance yet attractive plants.

The laurel-leaf cistus is a remarkable example of nature’s adaptability and beauty, blending aesthetic charm with ecological significance. Whether enhancing the landscape of a Southern European garden or standing resilient in the wild terrains of Türkiye, Cistus laurifolius continues to prosper and enchant those who encounter it.

Common Names

Swe: lagercistros
Eng: laurel-leaf cistus, laurel-leaved cistus
Deu: lorbeerblättrige zistrose
En: Laurel-leaf cistus, Laurel-leaved Rock-rose, Laurel-leaved Cistus, Sun Rose
Ca: Estepa de muntanya
Nl: Cistusroos
Fi: Laakerikistus
Fr: Ciste à feuilles de laurier
De: Lorbeerblättrige Zistrose
Hu: Babérlevelű szuhar
It: Cisto maggiore
Pl: Czystek wawrzynolistny
Es: Jara de hoja de laurel
Sv: Lagercistros
Tr: Defne yapraklı laden

Synonyms

Distribution

• Corse (native)
• France (native)
• Greece (native)
• Italy (native)
• Morocco (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Spain (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Turkey-in-Europe (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Apr 27, 2021 by Michelle Mateos (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2019 by Antoine josse (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 31, 2021 by Elisa Castel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 16, 2021 by Ramón Valle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 15, 2018 by Víctor Huete (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Oct 9, 2021 by Pascual Asensio (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 2, 2022 by Alicia Nebot (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 26, 2021 by Miguel A. C. (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 26, 2021 by Miguel A. C. (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 12, 2021 by perez norma (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Feb 19, 2021 by Collados Ana (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 26, 2022 by Alonso Flores Lucas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 26, 2021 by Miguel A. C. (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 30, 2020 by aranaga ainhoa (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 26, 2020 by cavero laura (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2019 by Antoine josse (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 31, 2021 by Elisa Castel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2019 by Antoine josse (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Aug 15, 2016 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 28, 2020 by Eduard (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Hugues TINGUY (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Hugues TINGUY (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 16, 2019 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 12, 2019 by mylene Franco (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 28, 2020 by Eduard (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 19, 2019 by Eric Balleydier (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 21, 2022 by Gonzaszas Zaszas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 21, 2020 by Raúl Sánchez Pérez (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3596501)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:168336-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cistus laurifolius L.)

Specifications

Growth habit: Subshrub

Growth

Ph maximum: 5.0

Ph minimum: 4.5

Light: 8

Atmospheric humidity: 5

Bloom months: [‘jun’, ‘jul’]

Soil nutriments: 4