Cistus x purpureus is an old heritage hybrid rockrose dating back to the end of the eighteenth century and is a cross between Cistus ladanifer and Cistus creticus. It has large, deep purple-pink flowers with each petal having a dark maroon blotch near the centre which is comprised of yellow filaments holding orange anthers surrounding a prominent white stigma. It is one of the most popular of all rockroses and deservedly so; the combination of flower size and the striking colour make a strong visual impact.