Spanish Broom

anthyllis cytisoides

Also known as: ["False Broom","Spanish Broom"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Anthyllis Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to the Mediterranean region, characterized by its yellow flowers and silvery foliage.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: rock garden, xeriscaped area, or sunny border
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or rocky soil with low organic matter; mimics its native Mediterranean habitat.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates intense summer sun with proper hydration.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from harsh midday sun in extreme heat; ensure outdoor placement in full sun.

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 essential; avoid shade; rotate for even growth.

Watering

every 2–3 weeks in summer, less frequently in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or rocky soil

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0–7.5).

Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy soils; use gritty mix.

Temperature

Thrives in warm, arid conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers hot summers and cool, dry winters.

Protect from frost; avoid overwatering in cold; ensure warmth in winter.

Fertilizing

rarely needed, apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in spring if desired

Fertilize minimally; use a cactus/succulent mix; stop in winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting 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), bright indirect light, and high humidity (e.g., using a propagation dome).

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and coarse sand or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establishment may take 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use fresh cuttings; maintain humidity; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant; remove dead or crossing branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth; best done after flowering or in early spring.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot one size larger (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure a drainage layer at the bottom.

Suggestions

Repot only when necessary, as Anthyllis cytisoides prefers being slightly root-bound. Typically every 2–3 years or when drainage becomes poor.

Checklist

Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; minimal root disturbance.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to deliver water precisely to the base of the plant.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to match dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate small amounts of compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

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

Cold Stress

Susceptible to root rot and dieback in cold, damp conditions; may become dormant or die if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).

Solution: Provide winter protection (e.g., mulch, move to a sheltered location); avoid overwatering in cold weather.

Hot Stress

Leaves may curl or drop in extreme heat if watered improperly; may cease flowering.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade if necessary; water deeply in the morning; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply in growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a low-nitrogen, balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply sparingly in spring and early summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Anthyllis cytisoides may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Anthyllis cytisoides is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, which can lead to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Anthyllis cytisoides may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Anthyllis cytisoides if the soil is waterlogged, leading to decay of root tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest parts of Anthyllis cytisoides, particularly seeds and roots. The plant poses a low risk, but ingestion should be avoided.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Anthyllis cytisoides seeds and roots may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic, but caution is advised to prevent accidental ingestion.

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

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant, especially seeds and roots. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Anthyllis cytisoides contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and potential allergic reactions in humans. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion of seeds and roots may lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach pain diarrhea skin rash
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and roots. Wash hands after handling the plant.
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 cytisoides toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should Anthyllis cytisoides be watered?

A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially once established.

Q: Does Anthyllis cytisoides attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 2–3 weeks in summer, l
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Rock Sainfoin
View
Harvey's Silk Tree
View
Fairy Duster
View
Woolly Locoweed
View