Horrid Broom
genista horrida
Also known as: ["Horrid Broom","Spiny Broom"]
Overview
A spiny, deciduous shrub native to Mediterranean regions, known for its bright yellow flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Genista |
| Botanical Name: | Genista horrida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden, xeriscaped landscape, or container in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a location with unobstructed sun exposure; for indoor cultivation, use a south-facing window or supplemental grow lights.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat to prevent leaf burn; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that can intensify light.
Watering
every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries out between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in moderate to warm climates.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; avoid sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with bright, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, propagation medium, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of older or leggy stems; light shaping of new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before active growth; remove dead or diseased wood; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation of the soil; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
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, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress; browning leaf edges in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to reduced growth and potential frost damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells; apply a layer of mulch to insulate roots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, and wilting, especially if combined with inadequate watering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use a mister or humidifier to cool the air around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Genista horrida. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal distress and neurological impairment, which may be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Genista horrida can lead to toxicosis due to the presence of alkaloids. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms, potentially leading to more serious systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicGenista horrida contains toxic compounds, primarily alkaloids, which can cause significant physiological disturbances upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with nervous system function and can lead to severe gastrointestinal and cardiovascular effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Genista horrida toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does Genista horrida attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is Genista horrida?
A: It is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 10–14 days, allowing s |
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