Scotch Broom
Cytisus scoparius
Also listed as Sarothamnus scoparius, Corema scoparium
Also known as Scots Broom, Common Broom, Broom
Climate Match for your location
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Scotch Broom is a vigorous deciduous shrub with bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring. It thrives in poor, well-drained soils and is drought-tolerant once established, but can become invasive in some regions.
Why grow it
Scotch Broom serves well in permaculture systems requiring nitrogen fixation and pioneer colonization of poor soils where many ornamentals fail. Its drought tolerance and minimal fertility requirements make it useful for erosion control and stabilization on marginal land. Compared to other leguminous shrubs, it establishes quickly and requires little maintenance once established.
Watch out for
Dense growth can shade out nearby plantings if not managed with regular pruning. Seed production is prolific, so deadheading spent flowers reduces volunteer seedlings in adjacent beds. The plant's vigor means it can outcompete slower-growing perennials planted nearby.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fabaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean (southwestern Europe)
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Scotch Broom is a vigorous deciduous shrub with bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring. It thrives in poor, well-drained soils and is drought-tolerant once established, but can become invasive in some regions.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Scotch Broom grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Scotch Broom serves well in permaculture systems requiring nitrogen fixation and pioneer colonization of poor soils where many ornamentals fail. Its drought tolerance and minimal fertility requirements make it useful for erosion control and stabilization on marginal land. Compared to other leguminous shrubs, it establishes quickly and requires little maintenance once established.
Watch out for
Dense growth can shade out nearby plantings if not managed with regular pruning. Seed production is prolific, so deadheading spent flowers reduces volunteer seedlings in adjacent beds. The plant's vigor means it can outcompete slower-growing perennials planted nearby.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fabaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean (southwestern Europe)
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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