Species spreading broom

spreading broom

Genista pilosa

Genista pilosa, or the spreading broom, is a low-growing evergreen shrub endemic to the Mediterranean region of Europe. Its uncommon name is due to its brittle, feathery green foliage resembling a broom's bristles. Its twiggy branches grow in a spreading manner and bear yellow flowers in the summer. This plant is drought-tolerant and grows well in dry, rocky soils. It is often found in sunny locations in the Mediterranean region. Spreading broom can also tolerate coastal regions and light frosts. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens and an easy-care ground-cover. It is also great for planting between stepping stones or walkways, to give texture and interest.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Greenwood Cuttings,Greenwood Cuttings

Hardiness Zone:

5

Flowers:

Showy, Yellow Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Spreading broom (Genista pilosa) should be watered approximately once a week, depending on its growing conditions. They require even and consistent moisture, so it is important to check the soil moisture before watering. If the soil is already quite damp, then you don’t need to water it right away. When watering, make sure to soak the whole root system of the plant, but avoid over-watering. Too much water can cause root rot, and too little water can cause the plant to dry out and die.

sunlight

Spreading broom (Genista pilosa) prefers areas with full sun, at least 6 hours a day. It can tolerate some shade, but will flower best in full sun. In some regions with hot summers, it can handle full sun all day long. During its flowering period, it may benefit from some afternoon shade in areas with hot summers. In winter, full sun is beneficial for spreading broom, especially in areas that stay relatively warm in the winter.

pruning

The ideal time for pruning Genista pilosa is during late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Also, thin overcrowded stems by cutting them back to the ground. This type of plant can tolerate moderate pruning to help maintain its shape and size. However, avoid cutting back more than 1/3 of the plant at once to reduce the stress on the plant and its root system.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Genista pilosa typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Genista pilosa is in July and August.

Hardiness Map