Spanish Broom (Spartium junceum)

Spanish Broom
Scientific Name: Spartium junceum L.
Synonym: Spartianthus junceus, Genista hispanica Ger. non L, Spartium americanum
Family: Fabaceae
Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 5-24
USDA:

Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Western Mediterranean basin (Spain, Marocco, Canary Islands)
Growth Habits: Shrub, 6 to 15 feet tall (1.8-4.5 m); almost leafless green stems; elongated to lance-shaped leaves, up to 0.5 inch long (12 mm), with hairy undersides
Watering Needs: Little water
Propagation: Seeds (pre-treated)

The Spanish Broom is considered an invasive plant in California, Oregon, and Washington. All parts of the plant are poisonous. The flowers yield a yellow dye.

Cultural Practices:
Trim to keep compact.

Blooming Habits:
The Spanish Broom has very fragrant bright yellow flowers, 1 inch long (2.5 cm) for a long period from spring to mid-summer.

Fruiting Habits:
Hairy pods, 2 to 4 inches long (5-10 cm), with 10 to 15 seeds. When ripe, the pods open abruptly, ejecting the seeds.

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