Mexican origanum, Sage-leaved Cistus, Sage-leafed rock rose
Cistus salviifolius
Family: Cistaceae
What it is like
A low shrub. It lies along the ground. It grows 75 cm high and spreads 75 cm wide. The leaves are wrinkled and rough. They are dark grey-green on the upper surface and whitish grey underneath. They are downy on both surfaces. The leaves are oval and have a wedge shaped base. They are 10-40 mm long. They have 3 veins. The flowers are usually borne singly. They have white petals. The flowers are 30-50 mm across.
There are about 20 Cistus species.
Where it is found
It is a Mediterranean climate plant. It grows in rocky places and stony dry hillsides. It suits hardiness zones 7-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Europe (country/location of origin), France, Greece, Italy, Mediterranean, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Türkiye
How it is used for food
The dried leaves are used as an adulterant of marjoram.
Edible parts
Leaves - tea, seeds - seasoning
How it is grown
Plants are grown byseeds.
Its other names
Local names
Irgual, Kartli