Genista stenopetala, the sweet broom, Easter broom or leafy broom (syn. Genista spachiana, Cytisus spachianus), is a species of flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae, native to the Canary Islands, on La Palma and Tenerife. It is an evergreen shrub growing to 3 metres (9.8 ft) tall. The leaves are trifoliate, the leaflets 1–3 centimetres (0.39–1.18 in) long, narrow elliptic, coated with fine silky, silvery hairs. The strongly scented flowers are yellow, 1–2 centimetres (0.39–0.79 in) long, produced in racemes 5–11 centimetres (2.0–4.3 in) long. The flowers appear in late winter or early spring. The fruit is a pod 2–3 centimetres (0.79–1.18 in) long. The Latin specific epithet stenopetala means "with narrow petals".Under the name Genista × spachiana, it has won the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It is not a hardy plant, and does not tolerate temperatures below 5 °C (41 °F), so in temperate climates it is usually grown under glass. However, it may be placed outside during the summer months, in a sheltered, sunny spot.
Genista spachiana possesses strong resistance to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of maintenance, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be trimmed after they have finished blooming. Genista spachianat is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much gardening experience.
How to keep Genista Spachiana.
Light
Genista spachiana comes from open habitats, such as sunny meadows and forest edges, which offer ample light. It does best in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to various sunlight conditions.
Temperature
Genista spachiana is highly adaptable to a wide range of climatic conditions, from sweltering summers to cold winters. Still, it has an optimal temperature range for growth. If temperatures become too high, the plant is susceptible to heat and humidity stress, which can lead to its death. In areas where temperatures approach the lower limit of its cold tolerance, it is necessary to apply insulating measures to protect the plant.
Fertilizer
Timing is important for fertilizing Genista spachiana. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly until early summer. Fertilizer supports the development of attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth periods.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Genista
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-11
- Mature Height
- 1.52 m to 2.44 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.05 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Summer, Early fall
Other names.
