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Description
Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus, commonly known as Hairy Broom or Hairy Cytisus, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It originated in the Mediterranean region and can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant is characterized by its upright growth habit and its branches that spread outwards. During the blooming season, which usually starts in late spring and lasts until early summer, the plant produces yellow flowers that are scented and have a pea-like shape. The flowers are followed by seed pods, which are also shaped like peas and contain several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Fabales|| Family| Fabaceae|| Genus| Cytisus|| Species| Cytisus hirsutus || Subspecies | Cytisus hirsutus subsp. polytrichus |
Appearance
Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height and 1.5 meters in width. Its leaves are small and green, with a length of about 1.5 cm. The plant has an upright growth habit, with its branches spreading outwards. During the blooming season, the plant produces yellow flowers that are scented and have a pea-like shape. The flowers are followed by seed pods, which are also shaped like peas and contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year, in the spring, with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause curling leaves and stunted growth. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap to control aphids.- Spider mites: These pests are common in hot, dry weather and can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap to control spider mites.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant is growing in well-drained soil.
Habitat
Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in dry, rocky areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.Q: Can I grow Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this plant in a container, as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is provided with enough water and nutrients.Q: Can I prune Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus?
A: Yes, you can prune this plant to control its size and shape. Prune it in the late winter or early spring, before the new growth appears.Q: Can I propagate Cytisus Hirsutus Subsp. Polytrichus from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate this plant from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
– Cytisus scoparius (Common Broom)- Cytisus battandieri (Pineapple Broom)- Cytisus multiflorus (Spanish Broom)
References
– “Cytisus hirsutus subsp. polytrichus.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d. Web. 05 July 2021.- “Cytisus hirsutus subsp. polytrichus.” Royal Horticultural Society. n.d. Web. 05 July 2021.- “Hairy broom.” Gardenia.net. n.d. Web. 05 July 2021.
