Poplar-leaved cistus (Cistus populifolius, Sp. Pl.: 523 (1753))

Family: Cistaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 523 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Cistus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Portugal, N. Spain, France

Description

Poplar-leaved cistus, scientifically known as Cistus populifolius, is a noteworthy flowering plant cherished for its charming appearance and resilience. This species was first documented in 1753 by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus, who described it in his seminal work “Species Plantarum” (page 523).

Belonging to the Cistaceae family, Cistus populifolius is indigenous to parts of Southern Europe, specifically flourishing in Portugal, Northern Spain, and France. These regions provide the ideal climate and soil conditions necessary for its growth, allowing the plant to thrive.

The poplar-leaved cistus stands out due to its distinctive foliage that mimics that of a poplar tree, hence its common name. The leaves are typically broad, green, and somewhat leathery in texture, adding to the plant’s robustness. In spring and early summer, it adorns itself with simple yet elegant white flowers, each featuring a cluster of prominent yellow stamens in the center. These delicate blooms not only add visual appeal but also attract a variety of pollinators, contributing to the local ecosystem.

Cistus populifolius is well-suited to a Mediterranean climate, favoring well-drained, sandy or rocky soils and abundant sunlight. This makes it an excellent choice for gardeners and landscapers looking to add a touch of natural beauty to dry, sun-drenched areas. Its drought-tolerant nature reduces the need for frequent watering, making it a sustainable option for garden enthusiasts.

The plant’s resilience also extends to its ability to grow in poor soils where other species might struggle, underscoring its hardiness and adaptability. Whether used for ornamental purposes, to stabilize soil, or to attract pollinators, the poplar-leaved cistus is a versatile addition to any landscape.

In conclusion, Cistus populifolius is more than just a beautiful plant; it is a testament to nature’s adaptability and beauty. Its longstanding presence in parts of Portugal, Northern Spain, and France highlights its ecological importance and enduring appeal.

Common Names

Swe: poppelcistros
En: Poplar-leaved Cistus, Poplar-leaved Rockrose
Ar: قريضة حورية الأوراق
Ca: Estepa populifòlia
Da: Poppelbaladet Soløjetræ
Fr: Ciste à feuilles de peuplier, Ciste de Narbonne
Gl: Carpaza macho
Es: Jara cervuna, Jara jarguna, Jara macho
Sv: Poppelcistros
: Poplar-leaved cistus

Synonyms

• Ledonia populifolia var. cordifolia (Spach)

Distribution

• France (native)
• Morocco (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jan 3, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Ans GORTER (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2017 by Henk Van Lottum (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Apr 26, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 21, 2021 by Lene Bo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 8, 2021 by Henk Van Lottum (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 26, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 22, 2021 by Pierre Sallé (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 7, 2021 by Belén Sánchez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 7, 2021 by Belén Sánchez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 7, 2021 by Romero Carmen (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jun 20, 2022 by Andres Barredo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 23, 2021 by carper ml (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 29, 2020 by Rico García Antonio (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 30, 2021 by Antonio Ramírez Martín (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 7, 2021 by Belén Sánchez (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 1, 2019 by Manuel Santos (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2021 by Raúl Sánchez Pérez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2022 by Fidel1412 Fidel (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2019 by Manuel Santos (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 9, 2021 by Rico García Antonio (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Apr 15, 2017 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Taken May 15, 2003 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

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

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7331314)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:168435-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cistus populifolius L.)

Specifications

Growth habit: Subshrub

Growth

Ph maximum: 5.0

Ph minimum: 4.5

Light: 8

Atmospheric humidity: 5

Bloom months: [‘may’, ‘jun’]

Soil nutriments: 4