Spiny broom

calicotome spinosa

Also known as: ["Spiny broom","Spanish broom"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Calicotome Category: Shrubs

Overview

A spiny, deciduous shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its yellow flowers and hardy nature.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Calicotome
Botanical Name: Calicotome spinosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny border
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent 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 old growth 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.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

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

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near large windows with direct afternoon sun.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly until runoff, then let soil dry out; avoid frequent shallow watering; adjust frequency based on season and weather.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

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 / 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in heat.

Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced NPK ratio.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in 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 (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching and airflow.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.

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 before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the base of the plant, avoiding foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce 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 fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; use diluted fertilizer; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Calicotome spinosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids, which disrupt chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Calicotome spinosa is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, which can lead to root damage and reduced nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Calicotome spinosa may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Calicotome spinosa due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Calicotome spinosa, particularly from its seeds and berries. The plant's toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects in felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian promptly if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Calicotome spinosa seeds and berries can lead to significant toxicity, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic effects. The plant's compounds can be particularly harmful to canine physiology.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Calicotome spinosa contains toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, though severe cases may involve systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of seeds and berries. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
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 Calicotome spinosa toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does Calicotome spinosa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How drought-tolerant is Calicotome spinosa?

A: It is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.

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