Spanish Broom
cytisus oromediterraneus
Also known as: ["Oro-Mediterranean Broom","Mountain Broom"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to the Iberian Peninsula, known for its bright yellow flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Cytisus |
| Botanical Name: | Cytisus oromediterraneus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12 to 35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- 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: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- 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 of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry 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).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); thrives in Mediterranean climates with mild winters and warm summers.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
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/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use 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 by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for 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
Leaves may wilt, turn brown, or drop; roots can suffer damage in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; reduce or stop feeding in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic alkaloids in Cytisus oromediterraneus. Even small amounts can lead to severe poisoning, affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. The plant poses a significant risk to feline health.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are susceptible to the toxic alkaloids in Cytisus oromediterraneus, particularly cytisine, which can cause significant gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances. The effects can be severe, especially in smaller breeds or if large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCytisus oromediterraneus contains toxic alkaloids, primarily cytisine, which act as nicotinic receptor agonists. Ingestion can lead to neuromuscular stimulation, resulting in symptoms ranging from mild gastrointestinal distress to severe neurological effects. The plant's toxicity is comparable to that of other Fabaceae species containing similar alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cytisus oromediterraneus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is this plant?
A: It is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
