shrub

Scotch broom

Cytisus scoparius

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) — a shrub, for Full sun, Low water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Waterlow to medium

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomassmedium
Nectarattracts pollinators

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceNew growth emerges after the last spring frost and when air temperatures consistently rise above 5°C.
floweringFlowering typically occurs from May to June, triggered by increasing day length.
fruitingFruiting follows flowering, with pods developing over approximately 45 days.
senescenceFoliage begins to senesce with the onset of the first autumn frosts.
dormancyEnters dormancy after senescence, lasting through winter until spring conditions return.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained
Nitrogen fixingYes
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatesnitrogen
Soil texturesandy, loamy, gravelly
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceHigh

Propagation

Methodsseed, cuttings
Difficulty3 / 5
Establishes in~1 yr
Stratificationrequires scarification and cold stratification
Self-seedingAggressive
Divisionnot applicable

Wildlife & pests

Attractsbees, butterflies