Forsythia
Forsythia × intermedia
Also listed as Forsythia × densiflora, Forsythia × spectabilis
Also known as Border Forsythia, Showy Forsythia
Climate Match for your location
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A vigorous deciduous shrub celebrated for its profusion of bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring before leaves emerge. Forsythia is a reliable, low-maintenance plant ideal for hedges, screens, and natural landscaping.
Why grow it
Forsythia x intermedia flowers notably earlier than many spring-blooming shrubs, often providing color when few other woody plants are in bloom. Among forsythia species, this hybrid is valued for vigor and cold hardiness across temperate zones. Its deciduous habit and fast growth make it practical for quick screening or hedging where seasonal bare branches are acceptable.
Watch out for
This shrub requires annual or biennial pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense branching; unpruned plants become leggy and sparse over time. Heavy pruning should be staggered across multiple stems rather than performed all at once, as this improves recovery and flowering the following season.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Oleaceae
Native Range
China, Korea
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
'Lynwood Gold' and 'Karl' are among the most popular, selected for abundant bright yellow blooms and reliable performance. 'Spring Glory' is noted for earlier flowering and larger blooms.
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A vigorous deciduous shrub celebrated for its profusion of bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring before leaves emerge. Forsythia is a reliable, low-maintenance plant ideal for hedges, screens, and natural landscaping.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Forsythia grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Forsythia x intermedia flowers notably earlier than many spring-blooming shrubs, often providing color when few other woody plants are in bloom. Among forsythia species, this hybrid is valued for vigor and cold hardiness across temperate zones. Its deciduous habit and fast growth make it practical for quick screening or hedging where seasonal bare branches are acceptable.
Watch out for
This shrub requires annual or biennial pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense branching; unpruned plants become leggy and sparse over time. Heavy pruning should be staggered across multiple stems rather than performed all at once, as this improves recovery and flowering the following season.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Oleaceae
Native Range
China, Korea
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar shrubs you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.
Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
'Lynwood Gold' and 'Karl' are among the most popular, selected for abundant bright yellow blooms and reliable performance. 'Spring Glory' is noted for earlier flowering and larger blooms.