Grey Genista
genista cinerea
Also known as: ["Grey Broom","Dwarf Broom"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Europe, characterized by grey-green foliage and bright yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Genista |
| Botanical Name: | Genista cinerea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, open position
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh summer sun; avoid placing near large windows with direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in Mediterranean climates.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength if needed; avoid fertilizing newly planted specimens.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth; best done after flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth in winter; move containers indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid watering before cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves and wilt the plant; may lead to reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply in the morning; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to avoid new growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Genista cinerea due to its cytisine content, which can induce severe gastrointestinal and neurological reactions. The plant's alkaloids disrupt normal physiological processes, posing a significant health risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxic principles in Genista cinerea, particularly cytisine, are harmful to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms. The alkaloids interfere with normal neurotransmitter function, leading to distress and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicGenista cinerea contains toxic compounds, primarily cytisine, which acts as a nicotinic receptor agonist, leading to neurological and gastrointestinal disturbances. Ingestion can cause significant physiological stress, particularly affecting the central nervous system and digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Genista cinerea toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does Genista cinerea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is Genista cinerea?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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