Cistus ladanifer

Gum Rockrose - can grow to 2.5m tall. They adorned the hills around Monchique in Portugal where this photograph was taken. It is very attractive with its tissue paper-like petals and maroon inner spots. It is a native to the Mediterranean regions. During the summer it gives off a secretion which is also used as a perfume.

John Foss Nature Photography Birds Wild Flowers Wildlife Butterflies Moths Greaghnafarna Ballinaglera Ireland Leitrim Derby England UK Algarve Portugal