About
A compact, upright, evergreen sub-shrub to about 30cm tall from mountain habitats in Turkey and the Caucasus with small, broadly ovate to kidney-shaped, mid-green leaves and dense, upright spikes of small, tubular, deep violet-blue flowers with a prominent lower lip in summer. A choice and ornamental rock garden perennial for a sunny, well-drained position.
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
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
FragranceFlower
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
CultivationWill grow in any well-drained soil in full sun. Thrives in poor acid soil but may become chlorotic on shallow chalk soil. Resents transplanting
PruningPruning group 3, but do not cut into old wood
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to broom gall mites
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus