Cistus spp

[MWP admin]

I am reading about Cistus creticus on a book called Wild Flowers of the Mediterranean

This states that the Cistus creticus ( that we know in Malta) is actually a subsp. of Cistus incanus. In other words the species name used is Cistus incanus and there are 2 subsp

1) C. incanus subsp incanus (= C. incanus)
2) C. incanus subsp. creticus ( = C. creticus)

the photo of both plants look quite the same and the most spottable difference is that 2) has smaller leaves with more sinusoidal margins.

My question:

Is there C. incanus subsp incanus in Malta?

[robcar]

Is the book that you are reading somewhat old?

The information I have is that although various subspecies have been recognised in the past, today it is considered as one rather variable species Cistus creticus. C.incanus is considered a synonym of C.creticus

[jackpot]

yes robcar, as Cistus incanus ssp. creticus (L.) Heyw.

[MWP admin]

Thanks, now the mystery is cleared! The book is not very old, republished with corrections on year 2000.

Wild Flowers of the Mediterranean.