About
A deciduous shrub with upright to arching stems and small, intense green trifoliate leaves. Produces masses of bright golden yellow flowers along the stems in late spring.
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
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, 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
CultivationPrefers well-drained, poor, neutral to slightly acid soils in full sun. Tolerant of lime but may become chlorotic on shallow chalk soils. Plant out when small, as brooms resent transplanting
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1 or pruning group 3 if necessary. Avoid cutting into old wood
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn, or by hardwood cuttings in midwinter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to broom gall mites
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus