Cistus salvifolius - Sage-leaved Cistus

Sage-leaved Cistus, a member of the Rockrose family (Cistaceae), is one of the commonest of several types of Cistus that occur throughout the Mediterranean Region. The beautiful white flowers can occur singly or in groups of up to four. Unlike other cistus flowers the petals are relatively un-crumpled in appearance. This shrub often forms vast colonies and favours dry, rocky places, maquis and garrigue.

This specimen was photographed in southern Portugal in May, where the plant flowers from March through until the end of June.