The spotted yellow sun rose is a shrub characteristic of Mediterranean coastal dune systems and a species of considerable ecological interest. In Catalonia it is protected and classified as vulnerable in the Red Book of the Vascular Flora of Catalonia (IUCN 2001 criteria). The decline of dune habitats, human disturbance and increasing pressure on coastal environments all threaten its conservation.
It has narrow, elongated greyish leaves adapted to the dry and saline conditions typical of coastal dunes. Its flowers are bright yellow and showy, with five well-developed petals characteristic of the Cistaceae (rockrose) family. It flowers mainly in spring and contributes to the stabilisation of dunes and the maintenance of biodiversity within these fragile environments.
Several colonies can be observed on the dune at Bosc Gran. They constitute a natural heritage asset of great value and should be protected by avoiding trampling and habitat degradation.
