Mountain Broom

anthyllis montana

Also known as: ["Mountain Broom","Hairy Broom"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Anthyllis Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to the mountains of Europe, characterized by its yellow flowers and hairy stems.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Anthyllis
Botanical Name: Anthyllis montana

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny, open border
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; mimics natural rocky habitats.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance for partial shade in extreme heat; adjust exposure based on intensity.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.

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

Use shade cloth in peak summer; rotate plant for even light; avoid direct sun indoors without acclimation.

Watering

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

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize soil dryness over strict schedules.

Soil

well-drained, rocky or sandy soil

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

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with gravel in outdoor settings.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoids prolonged cold.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity in hot weather.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

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

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; maintain humidity with a cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Sharp bypass pruners, clean scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape evenly; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; 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 without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow excess to escape.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly during active growth, typically every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings. Reduce frequency to monthly in winter dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause root damage, and increases susceptibility to pathogens in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).

Solution: Provide partial shade; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently to avoid heat shock.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before feeding; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid feeding in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Anthyllis montana may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's ability to perform photosynthesis and overall health.

Wilting in Anthyllis montana can result from water stress, root damage, or pathogen infection, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Anthyllis montana are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Anthyllis montana is often caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, leading to tissue decay, structural weakness, and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms if they consume parts of Anthyllis montana. The alkaloids present can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.

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

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Anthyllis montana seeds and roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological effects. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to potential individual sensitivities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy excessive drooling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian for guidance.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Anthyllis montana contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort, though severe cases may require medical attention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea dizziness headache
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and roots. Keep away from children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical advice.
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 Anthyllis montana toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How does Anthyllis montana attract wildlife?

A: Its flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies.

Q: What are the common problems with growing Anthyllis montana?

A: Common issues include leaf spots and stunted growth.

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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