About

Niki' is a low, spreading shrub to 1.5m across with arching, green stems, small, softly hairy leaves and pea-like, light yellow flowers produced all along the branchesin 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, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-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 usesCoastal, Gravel garden, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal 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. Will thrive in poor, acid soil and, although lime-tolerant, may become chlorotic on shallow chalk soils. Plant when small as it resents 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