About
A small, prostrate deciduous shrub with arching branches. Leaves small, trifoliate; flowers cream 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 typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal
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. Will thrive in poor acid soil, and although lime-tolerant may become chlorotic on shallow chalk soils. Plant when small, they resent transplanting
PruningMinimal pruning required but pruning group 1 or pruning group 3 if necessary. Do not cut into old wood
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn and hardwood cuttings in midwinter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to broom gall mites
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus