About
A small, compact broom to 120cm, with a spread to 150cm. It flowers on upright or slightly arching twigs in late spring and early summer. Flowers are a complex mix of red, yellow and orange shades, looking generally russet-orange from a distance. The very small leaves, and twigs, are mid-green.
About the genus
Cytisus can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs, ranging from prostrate to erect and almost tree-like, with small, simple or 3-parted leaves and pea-like flowers spring or summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden
ToxicityHumans/Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile well-drained soil in full sun, tolerant of a range of soils but best in poor acid soils. Plant directly from tubs when small as they resent transplanting
PruningPruning group 3 but do not cut back into old wood
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to broom gall mites
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus