Arrowleaf Broom

genista sagittalis

Also known as: ["St. John's Wort Broom","Arrowleaf Genista"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Genista Category: Shrubs

Overview

A low-growing, deciduous shrub native to southern Europe, characterized by its arrow-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Genista
Botanical Name: Genista sagittalis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or open meadows
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with low fertility.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust based on season and weather.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay; use gritty mix for containers.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 5–7. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F).

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering for heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize once a year in spring; use a low-nitrogen formula; water before and after feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or layering.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring or early summer when new growth is firm.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems to healthy buds; thin out crowded areas; shape as desired.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead wood; shape plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches if repotting is necessary.

Method

Use well-draining soil; ensure good drainage; gently tease out roots if pot-bound.

Suggestions

Generally not needed unless growing in containers. Outdoor plants thrive in situ.

Checklist

Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Allow excess water to drain away completely. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for structure.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth may slow or stop in prolonged cold.

Solution: Mulch around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; mist foliage during heatwaves.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid excess; water after application.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Genista is not heavy feeder.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Genista sagittalis can indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or may result from water stress, pests, or disease affecting chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Genista sagittalis is typically caused by water stress, either due to insufficient watering leading to dehydration or overwatering causing root suffocation and root rot.

Leaf spots on Genista sagittalis may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting in Genista sagittalis is often a consequence of excessive moisture, leading to root or stem rot, which can be exacerbated by fungal pathogens such as Phytophthora or Fusarium.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation and potential neurological effects if they consume parts of Genista sagittalis containing alkaloids.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young shoots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Genista sagittalis seeds and young shoots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and, in rare cases, mild neurological symptoms due to alkaloid content.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young shoots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor dogs closely if exposure occurs. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Genista sagittalis contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and nervous system effects when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young shoots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of seeds and young shoots. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Genista sagittalis toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.

Q: How drought-tolerant is Genista sagittalis?

A: It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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