Cistus monspeliensis

Cistus monspeliensis is one of approximately 20 species of evergreen shrubs from the Canary Islands, North Africa, Turkey and southern Europe, which thrive in dry, rocky habitats. A member of the Cistaceae, the genus bears opposite leaves, cymes of pink or white flowers which last only one day, and five or ten-valved fruits held on erect stems. Cistus monspeliensis, or the Montpelier rock rose, occurs in the Canary Islands and Mediterranean. It can reach up to 1m in height and spread, and has dark, lance-shaped leaves, which bear sticky hairs on the lower surface. The flower buds are also covered in hairs. Saucer-shaped flowers are up to 3cm in diameter, and the white petals have a yellow basal blotch which forms a ring around the yellow stamens. This species is associated with garigue habitats, and enjoys well-drained conditions in full sun.