Cistus clusii
Care, watering, light and tips for Cistus clusii on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Cistaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Cistus clusii
Cistus clusii, commonly known as Narrow-leaved Cistus, is a small, evergreen Mediterranean shrub, valued for its delicate white flowers with yellow stamens that beautifully contrast with its grey-green, aromatic foliage. Its compact form and resilience make it ideal for low-maintenance gardens, rockeries, and coastal areas, adding a wild yet elegant touch. It is perfect for creating low hedges or as a standalone plant in large pots.
Native range
Iberian Peninsula and North Africa
Care tips
It thrives in full sun exposure for abundant flowering and optimal growth, tolerating some partial shade. This plant is very drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be sparse, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. It requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or stony, and poor in nutrients. A common mistake is overwatering or using heavy clay soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Cistus clusii
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilted, fallen leaves. Dry, brittle stems.
- First aid
- Move to full sun. Water only when soil is completely dry. Prune dead branches.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and lack of sun. It does not tolerate shade or waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not rotted and green stems remain. It is very resilient.