About
An erect, medium-sized deciduous shrub with slender, greyish shoots bearing small creamy-white flowers in great profusion in late spring and early summer.
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 typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Coastal, 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, preferably acid soil in full sun. Suitable for rock garden or raised bed. Resents transplanting and may become chlorotic on particularly shallow, chalky soils
PruningPruning group 1 or pruning group 3. Do not cut into old wood
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring or autumn or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to broom gall mites
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus