Family: Papilionaceae
Common Name: Broom

Native to the Mediterranean and islands of the Atlantic, a number of species of this large genus of flowering, evergreen or deciduous shrubs are common in cultivation. Hardy and fast-growing, though generally short-lived, they are suitable for shrub borders and rock gardens. Their adaptability even in poor ground led to their being used in the Middle Ages as an emblem of good fortune. They have a heath-like appearance, with simple or compound leaves and terminal sprays of pretty, pea-type flowers which bloom profusely from early spring to summer, depending on species and growing conditions.

Species

C. multiflorus, white Spanish broom, zone 6, grows to 3 m (10 ft), with white, axillary flowers in spring.

C. x praecox, zone 5, is a semi-weeping, deciduous type, to 1.2 m (4 ft), with numerous, creamy yellow flowers along its branches in spring and has very small, silky, gray-green leaves. 'Albus' is a small variety, with rather drooping branches and white flowers.

C. scoparius, common broom, zone 5, has been declared a noxious weed in some regions. Growing to 2 m (6 ft), it has an arching, branched habit, producing solitary, yellow flowers or axillary flowers in pairs. Many hybrids are available in a number of shades of pink, red and orange. The form andreanus has yellow and red flowers. This species and C. multiflorus have produced numerous cultivars, including 'Burkwoodii', 'Cornish Cream', 'Pomona', 'Lord Lambourne' and 'Lilac Time'.

Cultivation

These shrubs prefer a slightly acid, well-drained soil, a sunny position and a temperate climate. Provide ample water in summer if necessary. Propagate from seed sown in spring or autumn in a garden frame, or from semi-ripe cuttings in mid to late summer.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones.