Cistus inflatus, commonly known as Gum Cistus, is a spreading shrub that typically grows up to 3 feet tall and wide, with evergreen foliage. It is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in open woodlands and scrub areas of Portugal, western Spain, and northwestern France. The plant has oblong, green leaves that are 0.8-2.4 inches long, which are slightly sticky to the touch due to the presence of resin. From late spring to early summer, Gum Cistus produces showy white flowers that are 1.6-2.4 inches across, featuring narrowed yellow bases and hairy sepals, which attract pollinators such as bees.

Gum Cistus is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and Mediterranean gardens. Its resinous leaves and stems can exude a pleasant fragrance, especially on warm days, adding to its sensory appeal in the garden. It is often used in rock gardens, as ground cover, or in coastal planting due to its tolerance of salt spray. For optimal growth, it requires full sun and well-drained soil. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. There are no widely recognized cultivars of this species, but it is sometimes confused with its close relatives due to its complex taxonomic history involving hybridization.CC BY-SA 4.0