Labdanum, Common gum cistus

Cistus ladanifer

Physical Characteristics

Cistus ladanifer is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe - W. Mediterranean.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Manna Seed Edible Uses: Condiment Gum Seed - ground into a powder and used with cereal flours in making cakes and breads[177, 183]. An oleo-resin obtained from the leaves and stems is eaten raw or used as a commercial food flavouring in baked goods, ice cream, chewing gum etc[2, 105, 177, 183, 238]. The plant is said to yield a sweet manna[183].This report is probably referring to the oleo-resin mentioned above[K].

Medicinal Uses

Antibiotic Emmenagogue Expectorant Stimulant Labdanum is an aromatic, expectorant, stimulant herb that controls bleeding and has antibiotic effects[4, 238]. It is used internally in the treatment of catarrh and diarrhoea[238] and as an emmenagogue[4]. The leaves are harvested in late spring and early summer and can be dried for later use, or the resin extracted from them[238].

Known Hazards

None known