Cytisophyllum sessilifolium
Cytisophyllum sessilifolium · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around cytisophyllum sessilifolium and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Sessile-leaved Broom
- Family
- Fabaceae (legumes)
- Form
- Shrub
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (April-May)
- Adult size
- 1.5 to 2.5 m in height
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates down to -15°C
- Origin
- Mediterranean region and southern Europe
Care
Sunlight
Plant this shrub in full sun for generous and abundant flowering. It tolerates partial shade but will produce fewer flowers. Avoid overly shaded situations which slow growth and flowering.
Soil and drainage
Cytisophyllum prefers well-drained, light and even poor to average soil. It adapts well to chalky soils and tolerates dry conditions once established. Improve drainage by adding sand or gravel if your soil retains too much moisture.
Watering
Water regularly in the first year to promote root establishment. Once established, the shrub resists drought well. Reduce watering during the cold season and make sure never to create waterlogging.
Pruning and maintenance
Perform light pruning after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape. Remove dead or poorly oriented branches. Avoid severe pruning which may compromise flowering the following year.
Fertilization
This shrub requires no regular fertilizer thanks to its symbiotic capacity with soil bacteria (legume family). A moderate application in spring is sufficient if the soil is very poor or depleted.
Diseases and pests
The shrub is generally not very susceptible to diseases. Occasionally watch for aphids on young shoots. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot during wet winters.
Did you know?
Cytisophyllum sessilifolium belongs to the Fabaceae family, those leguminous plants capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen through symbiosis with soil bacteria, which allows them to adapt to poor soils. Its small bright yellow flowers are a visual treat in spring in Mediterranean and mountain gardens.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese wisteriaWisteria sinensis
- Common broomCytisus scoparius
- Black locustRobinia pseudoacacia
- Common PeaLathyrus oleraceus
- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.