Prostrate Broom
cytisus decumbens
Also known as: ["Prostrate Broom","Decumbent Broom"]
Overview
A low-growing, woody shrub native to Mediterranean regions, known for its bright yellow flowers and prostrate growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Cytisus |
| Botanical Name: | Cytisus decumbens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden, sunny border, or open field
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, immediately after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate, removing up to one-third of the oldest stems.
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 plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; avoid placing near large shade-casting objects.
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).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers temperate conditions, ideal range 50–75°F (10–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure below 20°F (-6°C).
Monitor nighttime temperatures; use shade cloth in summer; protect roots with mulch in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to prevent leggy growth; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth.
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 mature but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems and light shaping cuts to maintain form.
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
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for thicker stems, gloves.
Checklist
Prune after flowering; sterilize tools; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim rootbound roots, replace with fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage, 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
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water lightly; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning foliage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, causing reduced growth and potential dieback of tender tissues.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., burlap wrap, mulch) in cold climates. Move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location during freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to water stress and metabolic disruption.
Solution: Increase watering frequency during heatwaves, provide afternoon shade if possible, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding; dilute liquid fertilizers.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in late autumn or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Cytisus decumbens due to its alkaloid content. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects, which may be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Cytisus decumbens by dogs can lead to toxicosis due to the presence of alkaloids. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms, potentially requiring veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCytisus decumbens contains toxic compounds, primarily alkaloids, which can cause significant physiological disturbances upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with the nervous system and can lead to severe gastrointestinal and cardiovascular effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cytisus decumbens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require frequent watering?
A: No, it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Cytisus decumbens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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