Sometimes labelled as Cistus crispus
but in fact a cross between C.crispus and C.albidus.
Originated SW Europe in 1929. Rock rose - Use to
growing on rocks and has sinuous roots that penetrate deep
into cracks and crevices following narrow seams of soil
which provide a little moisture and humus.
Some rock roses provide a gummy
substance, Ladanum, used in perfumery and collected at one
time by cutting off the beards of goats which browsed on
them and became sticky with the gum. Specially curved
knives with goat-horn handles were used for this job. All
are aromatic and although flowers only last a day they are
successive. Cistus from Greek kiste 'box' referring to
shape of capsules.
