Black Broom
cytisus nigricans
Also known as: ["Black Broom Cytisus","Dark Broom"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Europe, known for its dark green foliage and bright yellow flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Cytisus |
| Botanical Name: | Cytisus nigricans |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, open area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; poor drainage can lead to root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil; a mix of loam, sand, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, immediately after flowering; light pruning can be done in late winter if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth after flowering 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
Full sun is essential for blooms; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–7; tolerates cold winters down to -20°F (-29°C); prefers moderate temperatures in summer (60–75°F / 15–24°C).
Protect from frost in early spring; avoid placing near heat sources indoors; harden off before planting outdoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only in spring; use a low-nitrogen formula; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer; layering can also be successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F / 18–24°C), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix; keep slightly moist.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Take cuttings in the morning; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth; focus on post-flowering pruning to avoid cutting off buds.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers (for larger stems), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Prune after flowering; sterilize tools; make clean cuts; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if pot-bound; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; allow drainage; avoid overhead watering; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to reduce disease risk; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
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 sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; dieback or delayed growth in prolonged cold; buds failing to open in fluctuating temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn purple or bronze; growth slows; buds may abort; severe cold can cause dieback of stems.
Solution: Plant in well-drained soil to prevent cold-wet stress; apply a thick layer of mulch in fall; protect in pots by moving to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply in the morning; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; follow package dilution; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms upon ingestion of Cytisus nigricans due to its alkaloid content. While generally not severe, ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cytisus nigricans can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological effects due to the presence of alkaloids. The effects are typically not life-threatening but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCytisus nigricans contains alkaloids that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort, though severe cases may require medical attention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cytisus nigricans toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How often should I water Cytisus nigricans?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; it is drought tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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