Family: Papilionaceae
Common Name: Spanish Broom

A single-species genus of deciduous shrub from the Mediterranean, Spartium is now widely grown in many parts of the world, and has become naturalized in many places with a Mediterranean climate. It is upright-growing, with rush-like branches. The leaves are very small, often falling early leaving the green branches almost bare. Masses of yellow, fragrant flowers are borne at the branch ends from the beginning of summer to early autumn.

Species

S. junceum is a quick-growing shrub, to 3 m (10 ft) high, with cylindrical branches. The blueish green leaves are linear to lance-shaped and the fragrant, yellow, pea-shaped flowers are a source of yellow dye.

Cultivation

While Spartium can be grown in any garden soil, it prefers a well-drained soil in a sunny position. Prune after flowering to maintain compact shape. Propagate from seed sown in spring or autumn. Seed can be germinated in a garden frame.

Climate

Zone 8.