Flower Properties

Property	Value
English Name	Gum Rockrose
MainColor	White
PlantType	Herb
Growth Type	Cultivated
Season	May
ImageUrl	Cistus-001
Photographer	DP
Location
Human Toxicity	Non_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

A large, evergreen shrub with sticky, aromatic leaves and striking white flowers with dark red blotches at the base of each petal. Native to the western Mediterranean; cultivated in the UK in mild gardens. Resin (labdanum) has been valued since antiquity.

Distribution

Western Mediterranean (Spain, Portugal, Morocco); cultivated in gardens outside native range.

Medicinal/Other Uses

ource of labdanum resin, historically used in perfumes, incense, and traditional medicine for colds, skin issues, and wound healing.

Edibility

Not edible; resin is aromatic but not consumed.

Human Toxicity

Resin can cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Pet Toxicity

not well studied for pet safety; resinous leaves may cause mild digestive upset if

Active Compounds

Labdanum resin (diterpenes, flavonoids), essential oils.