Cistus creticus aka Pink Rockrose

Cistus creticus, or Cretan rockrose, is an evergreen shrub in the Cistaceae family. Kew places its native range in the central and eastern Mediterranean. It grows among scrub, on rocky ground, and on dry hills. Plants For A Future records habitats up to 3,280 feet [1,000 metres] above sea level. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This bushy shrub reaches about 3–5 feet [1–1.5 metres] tall and wide in gardens. It takes two to five years to reach full size. Its form varies, and the stems often have shaggy hairs. The green leaves have a mild scent. Flower colour ranges from deep purplish pink to rose pink. Each flower has a yellow centre. Flowers can span about 0.2 feet [0.06 metres]. The foliage stays on the plant through the year.

Give it full sun and a site sheltered from wind. South-facing or west-facing sites suit its needs. It grows in poor soil or soil with modest fertility. Chalk, clay, loam, and sand can all suit it with good drainage. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Very alkaline ground can cause chlorosis, which makes leaves turn yellow. RHS rates it H4 for UK conditions. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10.

Rockrose suits gravel beds, rock gardens, and coastal planting. It also fits borders, courtyards, banks, and slopes. Plants For A Future lists uses for ground cover and erosion control. It also provides habitat for wildlife. Most pests cause few problems, though honey fungus may attack it. Avoid severe pruning, since it responds poorly to cutting back hard. Raise new plants from seed or take softwood cuttings in summer. Sow seed when ripe or during spring.

The leaves can serve as a tea substitute. Resin from the leaves and stems also flavours commercial foods. These include baked goods, ice cream, and chewing gum. The resin, called ladanum, has uses in soap and perfume. Plants For A Future also records traditional medicinal uses for the plant. These include treating catarrh and diarrhoea, and use to promote menstruation. Such records do not establish that home treatment is safe or effective. The source lists no known hazards, but this does not prove safety for every use.