shrub

Gorse

Ulex europaeus

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Gorse (Ulex europaeus) — a shrub, for Full sun, Low water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun
Waterlow to medium

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomassmedium to high

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 can occur almost year-round, but is most prolific from late winter through early summer.
fruitingFruiting follows flowering, with pods developing and maturing over several months.
senescenceOlder foliage may show signs of senescence with the onset of the first autumn frosts, though the plant remains largely evergreen.

Soil interactions

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

Propagation

Methodsseed, cuttings
Difficulty3 / 5
Establishes in~1 yr
Stratificationrequires scarification and/or hot water treatment to break dormancy
Self-seedingAggressive

Wildlife & pests

Attractspollinators