Ladano, Gum Cistus
cistus ladanifer
Also known as: ["Gum Rockrose","Ladany"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its sticky resin and showy flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Cistus |
| Botanical Name: | Cistus ladanifer |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden, coastal areas, or sunny, open spaces
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Place in brightest window; rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in extreme heat.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-drained, rocky, alkaline soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent warmth; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
rarely required, annually in spring if needed
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, pruning saw for larger stems, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; check for pests; water lightly after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stems may become brittle; growth slows or halts; increased susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or curl; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCistus ladanifer is toxic to cats, with ingestion leading to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. The plant's resin contains compounds that can cause significant distress and potential systemic toxicity in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Cistus ladanifer by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms due to the presence of toxic diterpenes. The resin is especially harmful and can cause systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCistus ladanifer contains toxic compounds, including diterpenes, which can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The plant's resin is particularly potent and can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cistus ladanifer suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal conditions.
Q: Does Cistus ladanifer require pruning?
A: Light pruning after flowering can help maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Q: Can Cistus ladanifer be grown in containers?
A: While possible, it is best suited to open ground due to its spreading habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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