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Cytisus multiflorus

white Spanish broom

An erect, medium-sized deciduous shrub with slender, greyish shoots bearing small creamy-white flowers in great profusion in late spring and early summer

Other common names
Portugal laburnum
white broom
Synonyms
Cytisus albus (Lam.) Link
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer White Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Fabaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Cytisus can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs, ranging from prostrate to erect and almost tree-like, with small, simple or 3-parted leaves and pea-like flowers spring or summer

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained, preferably acid soil in full sun. Suitable for rock garden or raised bed. Resents transplanting and may become chlorotic on particularly shallow, chalky soils

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring or autumn or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Coastal
  • Gravel garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 1 or pruning group 3. Do not cut into old wood

Pests

May be susceptible to broom gall mites

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus

Get involved

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