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Description
Genista Sagittalis is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is also known as arrowleaf broom or needle broom. The plant is native to the Mediterranean regions of Europe and North Africa and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. The plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has bright yellow flowers that bloom from May to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Genista |
Appearance
The Genista Sagittalis plant has a slender stem with small green leaves that are shaped like arrows, hence the name arrowleaf broom. The plant produces numerous bright yellow flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and bloom from May to July. The plant is deciduous, meaning it loses its leaves in the winter and regrows them in the spring.
Care Guide
Genista Sagittalis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your arrowleaf broom:
- Water: The plant does not require much water and can tolerate drought well. Water the plant only when the soil is dry.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate poor soil conditions.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Genista Sagittalis plant is relatively pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap can prevent infestations. The plant can also be affected by root rot in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
The Genista Sagittalis plant is native to the Mediterranean regions of Europe and North Africa. It grows in dry, rocky areas and is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant can also grow in poor soil conditions and can tolerate drought well.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Genista Sagittalis indoors?
A: No, the plant requires full sun exposure and is not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: How often should I water my Genista Sagittalis plant?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is dry. The plant can tolerate drought well and does not require much water.
Q: Is Genista Sagittalis plant toxic to pets?
A: The plant is not toxic to pets but can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can I propagate Genista Sagittalis from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from softwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Genista genus include:
- Genista Tinctoria
- Genista Pilosa
- Genista Hispanica
- Genista Aetnensis
References
- “Genista Sagittalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 Sept. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282804&isprofile=0&letter=g>.
- “Arrowleaf Broom.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 29 Sept. 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16830/genista-sagittalis/details>.
- “Genista Sagittalis.” Plant Information Online. Accessed 29 Sept. 2021. <https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1418615>.
