About
Cytisus scoparius, the common broom, is an erect, deciduous shrub to around 1.5 m tall with slender, angled, green photosynthetic shoots bearing tiny, trifoliate, vivid-green leaves and masses of bright butter-yellow, pea-like flowers in late spring. A vigorous and showy native of heathland and open woodland, excellent for a sunny, well-drained, informal garden or wildflower planting.
About the genus
Cytisus, the brooms, are deciduous or evergreen shrubs ranging from prostrate ground-covers to tall, upright shrubs with slender, green, photosynthetic stems, small, simple or trifoliate leaves and pea-like flowers in yellow, white, pink, red or bicoloured in spring or early summer. Excellent shrubs for sunny, well-drained positions.
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
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope
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 any well-drained soil in full sun with a little shelter from cold drying winds; broom thrives in poor acid soils and may become chlorotic on shallow chalk soils. Plant when young, resents transplanting
PruningPruning group 3. Do not cut into old wood
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to broom gall mites
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus