Cytisus spachianus

 

  Sweet Broom

  Family: Leguminoseae

  Origin: Canary Islands (hybrid)

Hardiness: Hardy to 15 degrees; Zones 8b-9-10
Growth: Rapid growth to 6 to 8 feet with 5 to 6 foot spread
Form: Upright vase form with arching branches

 
  Compound leaves with 3 oval,
  bright green leaflets

  Spikes of 1/2" yellow fragrant flowers
  bloom in early spring (March)

Seeds: Unattractive one inch brown seed pods in fall
Exposure: Full sun is best
Water: Best with monthly deep watering in summer
Soil: Well drained
Fertilizer: Not needed
Prune: Thin and shape after bloom; cut back long stems by half
Problems: Genista worm (caterpillars); snails; excessive seeding

Often sold as Genista racemosa or Cytisus racemosa. Bright yellow flowers in spring make a spectacular display. Watch for caterpillars in early summer. They defoliate the plant very quickly. Do not plant where it would be difficult to remove seedlings.

© 1998 by Jim Clatfelter         Go to Garden California Home Page

This page hosted by Get your own Free Home Page