Scotch Broom Cytisus scoparius
ABOUT
The Scotch broom is a flowering plant that is widely recognized for its vibrant yellow flowers. These flowers are small, pea-like, and typically bloom in the late spring to early summer. The petals are bright and showy, creating a splash of color against the green foliage, which consists of small, compound leaves with an oval shape, structured in an alternate pattern along the branches. The overall form of the plant is shrubby and bushy, with multiple stems originating from the base. These stems are slender, green when young, but as they mature, they become woody and may take on a brownish hue. The Scotch broom has a dense, twiggy appearance, with the branches often being somewhat angular and slightly zigzagged. The leaves and stems can give the plant a fine-textured look when observed from a distance. The plant has an upright habit and produces seed pods after flowering. These pods are also visually distinctive; they are initially green but mature to a dark brown or black, and upon drying, they may split open with a noticeable popping sound, scattering seeds. The seeds themselves are hard and small. Throughout the seasons, the Scotch broom undergoes changes in appearance. In the winter, it may lose some or all of its leaves, depending more on the climate it is grown in. Despite these seasonal changes, the Scotch broom remains a recognizable landscape plant, often used for its ornamental flowers and its utility in stabilizing soils and controlling erosion.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae.
Synonyms
Scotch Broom, Common Broom, Besom, Scotchbroom, Sarothamnus scoparius.
Common names
Genista scoparia, Sarothamnus scoparius, Spartium scoparium, Sarothamnus vulgaris.
ToxicityTo humans
Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) is a plant that contains toxic alkaloids, such as sparteine and isosparteine, which can be harmful if ingested. The toxicity can affect the heart, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and potentially more severe cardiac issues like arrhythmias. In large amounts, ingestion could lead to more serious consequences, including respiratory failure and even death. If any part of the Scotch broom is consumed, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
To pets
Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) is also toxic to pets, containing harmful alkaloids that can cause similar symptoms as in humans. If pets ingest parts of this plant, they might experience vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in heart rate. In severe cases, poisoning can lead to coordination problems, collapse, and convulsions. It is crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately if a pet ingests Scotch broom.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6-9 feet (1.8-2.7 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape Decoration: Cytisus scoparius, commonly known as Scotch broom, adds vibrant color and texture to landscapes with its bright yellow flowers.
- Nitrogen Fixation: Scotch broom has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it and improving soil fertility for surrounding plants.
- Erosion Control: Its extensive root system helps stabilize soil, reducing erosion on slopes and disturbed areas.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Provides shelter and food resources for a variety of wildlife, including bees and other pollinating insects.
- Drought Tolerance: Scotch broom is well-adapted to dry conditions, requiring minimal water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Fast Growth: The plant grows quickly, which can be advantageous for rapid coverage of bare areas or for use as a quick ornamental feature.
Medical Properties- Diuretic: Cytisus scoparius has historically been used for increasing urine flow.
- Cardiotonic: There are some traditional uses of the plant to support heart function.
- Antiarrhythmic: It has been used to address irregular heartbeats.
- Purgative: The plant has been used for its laxative effects.
- Vasoconstrictor: There are indications that the plant may have been used to constrict blood vessels.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cytisus scoparius, commonly known as Scotch broom, has been used historically for making brooms and brushes due to its stiff, strong branches.
- The bright yellow flowers of Scotch broom can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding vibrant yellows or greens depending on the mordant used.
- Scotch broom wood, being very hard and dense, is used in small woodworking projects for making handles, walking sticks, and cabinet work.
- The plant has been planted to stabilize soil and prevent erosion because its root system holds soil effectively on slopes and embankments.
- In some regions, Scotch broom is cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks for its striking yellow flowers and dense foliage.
- During the Middle Ages, Scotch broom was believed to protect against witches and evil, so branches were sometimes hung on doors for this purpose.
- In certain musical traditions, Scotch broom stems have been used to craft traditional woodwind instruments, thanks to their hollow nature upon drying.
- Some pet owners use dried Scotch broom seed pods as a natural rattling sound in homemade cat toys.
- The plant has been utilized in land reclamation projects, particularly in areas where few other plants can survive, due to its nitrogen-fixing capability which enriches the soil.
- In basketry, the flexible stems of younger Scotch broom plants can be woven into decorative and functional baskets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Scotch Broom is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Scotch Broom is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purification: Cytisus scoparius, commonly known as Broom, has been used in Europe for centuries in rituals and ceremonies to purify spaces, clearing them of negative energies.
- Protection: Broom is also believed to offer protection against evil spirits and is sometimes placed above doorways to safeguard the home.
- Humility: The plant's simple and unassuming appearance may have contributed to its association with humility, reminding people to stay grounded and not to think too highly of themselves.
- New Beginnings: The act of sweeping away the old to make way for the new aligns with the symbolism of Broom, which is frequently connected to fresh starts and cleaning the slate.
- Transformation: Because it grows on disturbed land and can improve soil quality, Broom symbolizes transformation and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
WaterScotch broom, the common name for Cytisus scoparius, prefers dry conditions and should not be overwatered. During the growing season, water it once every week or two, providing about 1 to 2 gallons depending on the size and age of the plant and weather conditions, ensuring the soil has begun to dry out between watering. During the dormant season, reduce watering to once a month, if rain is insufficient, to prevent root rot. Always avoid waterlogging the soil as this plant can be quite drought-tolerant once established.
LightScotch broom thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to flourish and produce its vibrant yellow flowers. The best spot for this plant is in a location where it can receive unfiltered, full sun throughout the day, which will encourage the best growth and flowering performance.
TemperatureScotch broom can survive a wide range of temperatures but grows best when the temperature is between 60 and 75 Fahrenheit. It can tolerate minimum winter temperatures down to around 10 degrees Fahrenheit. During extreme temperature drops, providing some protection or mulch can help the plant survive until the temperature rises again.
PruningPrune Scotch broom immediately after it finishes flowering, usually in late spring or early summer, to maintain its shape and encourage new growth for the next season. It does not require frequent pruning; once a year is typically sufficient. Remove any dead or diseased branches and cut back flowered stems to a strong new shoot lower down to promote bushier growth.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is well-draining, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A combination of loam, sand, and peat is ideal to provide the necessary drainage and aeration. Avoid heavy clays or waterlogged conditions, which can cause root rot.
RepottingScotch Broom typically does not require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Repotting is generally recommended every 2 to 3 years, or when the plant has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingScotch Broom is adaptable to various humidity levels and does not require high humidity to thrive. It can do well in average humidity conditions typical of outdoor climates, without the need for additional humidity control.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Scotch Broom near a sunny window.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleCommonly known as Scotch Broom, Cytisus scoparius begins its life cycle from a hard-coated seed, which may require scarification or fire to germinate. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and grows rapidly into a shrub with green, slender branches. Throughout spring and early summer, Scotch Broom produces profuse bright yellow, pea-like flowers that are pollinated by insects, particularly bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into linear pods containing multiple seeds that mature by late summer. These seed pods eventually burst open, dispersing seeds which can remain viable in the soil for years, promoting the plant's spread and colonization of new areas. Scotch Broom is a perennial plant and can live for several years, typically up to 15 years, dying back in winter to resprout in spring from the existing root system.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) is often propagated in the springtime just before new growth begins. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by using its seeds. To propagate by seed, one must first collect the seed pods in late summer when they have turned brown and before they open, which is typically the time they start to crack. Once collected, the seeds need to be nicked or scratched (scarified) with a file or sandpaper to break the seed coat and then soaked in water for 24 hours to enhance germination. After scarification and soaking, the seeds are sown about a quarter inch deep (approximately 6 millimeters) in well-drained soil and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs in two to three weeks. Transplanting the seedlings can take place once they are large enough to handle and after the risk of frost has passed.
