Spanish Broom

adenocarpus complicatus

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

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Adenocarpus Category: Shrubs

Overview

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

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Adenocarpus
Botanical Name: Adenocarpus complicatus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or sunny borders
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • 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.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance to partial shade in hotter climates.

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

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 to partial shade

Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate regularly for even growth.

Watering

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

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

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

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate conditions.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; dilute to prevent root burn; stop in winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed propagation.

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

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or trim stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape lightly; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted, typically every 2–3 years.

Checklist

Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; avoid over-potting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or browning in extreme heat; stunted growth or chlorosis in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf drop if temperatures drop below freezing for extended periods.

Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop if exposed to excessive heat without adequate water.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply and more frequently during heatwaves.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

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

Wilting in Adenocarpus complicatus is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced growth and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Adenocarpus complicatus may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can affect Adenocarpus complicatus, often caused by overwatering or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Adenocarpus complicatus is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The seeds and leaves contain compounds that may lead to mild gastrointestinal distress. Cats are particularly sensitive to plant toxins, so ingestion should be taken seriously.

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

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek immediate veterinary care.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Adenocarpus complicatus can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The seeds and leaves contain compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. While not life-threatening, ingestion should be monitored, especially in small or sensitive breeds.

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

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian for guidance.
Humans
Non-toxic

Adenocarpus complicatus is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of certain alkaloids. The plant does not pose significant health risks under normal exposure conditions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Avoid consuming large amounts of seeds. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
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 Adenocarpus complicatus toxic to pets?

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

Q: How often should Adenocarpus complicatus be watered?

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

Q: Does Adenocarpus complicatus attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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