Cistus x purpureus (Labdanum, Orchid Rockrose) seeds, open pollinated in the organic Wild Veil Perfume Gardens on our De Luz site. This cultivar of Cistus is one of the sources of the perfume note labdanum, the sine qua non ingredient for all amber compositions. The resinous stems are the location of the precious fragrant material, so don't be discouraged if you bend in for a sniff of the gorgeous pink and blotched red flowers or rub its leaves and don't detect anything. As soon as the stems are warmed by the sun you will be confronted with the musky telltale scent of labdanum. The indispensable quality of this plant to the natural perfumer cannot be overstated, containing aromatic multitudes as it does: balsam poplar buds, propolis, fir, ambergris, raisins, muscatel wine, port wine, church pews, saliva, and sandalwood. It makes a wonderful addition to a perfume garden.
The scent of our Cistus x purpureus is singular because of the rare confluence of three soils found on our property: black volcanic, red volcanic, and decomposing granite.
Plant in well-draining soil with full sun. Hardy to zone 7 outdoors but can be overwintered indoors in cooler climates.
☽•☾ Wild Veil ☽•☾ alchemy between earth and ether ☽•☾
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