Canary Islands Broom
chamaecytisus proliferus
Also known as: ["Echinospartum proliferum","Spartium proliferum"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to the Canary Islands, known for its bright yellow, fragrant flowers that bloom in spring.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Chamaecytisus |
| Botanical Name: | Chamaecytisus proliferus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, adaptable to containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with added organic matter.
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 old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during extreme heat; ensure good air circulation indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid direct midday sun in summer; supplement with grow lights if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost, ensure good air circulation, adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall to prepare for dormancy; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below a node, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use softwood cuttings for best results; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems and light shaping to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged stems, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, use fresh soil mix, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location, apply mulch to protect roots, cover with frost cloth if frost is expected.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute properly, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to the cyanogenic glycosides present in Chamaecytisus proliferus. Ingestion can lead to mild to moderate toxicity, affecting cellular respiration and potentially causing metabolic stress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe cyanogenic glycosides in Chamaecytisus proliferus can cause mild to moderate toxicity in dogs if ingested. The compounds interfere with oxygen transport in cells, potentially leading to metabolic disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChamaecytisus proliferus contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon digestion. The physiological impact is primarily due to the inhibition of cellular respiration, leading to oxygen deprivation at the cellular level.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chamaecytisus proliferus toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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