Discover the beauty and resilience of cistus in NZ gardens. Also known as rock roses, cistus are Mediterranean shrubs famed for their dazzling, papery flowers and tough, drought-hardy nature. Perfectly suited to New Zealand’s varied climate—especially coastal, dry, and windy locations—cistus offer year-round structure, masses of spring blooms, and trouble-free performance. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance shrub for a sunny border or a standout feature in coastal landscaping, cistus in NZ provide texture, colour, and Mediterranean charm with minimal fuss.

Cistus lusitanicus, commonly known as the Gum Cistus, is a striking evergreen shrub valued for its large, white blooms marked with deep crimson spots at the base of each petal. Flowering from late spring into summer, it produces a vibrant display above aromatic, grey-green foliage. This hardy, drought-tolerant shrub thrives in poor soils and hot, sunny positions, making it ideal for low-maintenance, Mediterranean-style, or coastal gardens. Its showy flowers and tough nature make it a favourite with landscapers and gardeners alike.
From $24.77

Cistus salviifolius is a hardy evergreen shrub admired for its attractive grey green foliage and masses of crisp white flowers with bright yellow centres that appear through spring and early summer. This drought tolerant Mediterranean plant forms a naturally rounded habit and performs well in challenging conditions. Its long flowering display attracts bees and other beneficial pollinators. Well suited to New Zealand gardens, Cistus salviifolius is an excellent choice for low maintenance landscapes and coastal plantings.
From $24.77
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