Calicotome spinosa, the thorny broom or spiny broom, is a very spiny, densely branched shrub of the family Fabaceae which can reach up to three metres in height. It grows in the Western Mediterranean region on sunny slopes and dry, rocky ground. It is found in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria and Turkey, and it has been introduced to New Zealand. From March to June it produces bright yellow flowers which are borne singly or in small clusters. The seed-pods are 30mm long and are almost hairless, unlike those of the similar species Calicotome villosa.
How to keep Calicotome Spinosa.
Light
Spiny broom comes from open habitats, like sunny meadows and forest edges, which supply plenty of light. It thrives in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adjusting well to different sunlight levels.
Temperature
Spiny broom shows good temperature adaptability, tolerating high heat and wide temperature fluctuations. In hot conditions, attention should be paid to watering and providing suitable shade to prevent sunburn. Conversely, Spiny broom has relatively low tolerance for cold. While it can endure some cold, very low temperatures can cause frost damage.
Fertilizer
Timing is important when fertilizing Spiny broom. Apply fertilizer in early spring and then every month through early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy both during dormancy and periods of active growth.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Calicotome
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-10
- Mature Height
- 0.91 m to 3.05 m
- Mature Spread
- 0.91 m to 2.13 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer
- Native Area
- Italy, Spain, Algeria, Croatia, France
Other names.
