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Description
Cytisus Hirsutus, commonly known as Hairy Broom, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in Portugal, Spain, and North Africa. The plant grows up to 2 meters in height and 1.5 meters in width, with a rounded shape. It blooms in late spring to early summer, producing bright yellow flowers that grow in clusters. The leaves are green and small, with a hairy texture that gives the plant its name. It is a shrub that is easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cytisus |
Appearance
The Hairy Broom is a beautiful shrub that adds color to any garden. It has a rounded shape, with branches that grow outwards. The leaves are small and green, with a hairy texture that gives the plant its name. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters, making them stand out against the green leaves. The plant grows up to 2 meters in height and 1.5 meters in width. It is a deciduous shrub, which means it loses its leaves in the winter.
Care Guide
The Hairy Broom is an easy-to-care-for shrub that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the summer months. Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but it will not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7a to 9b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hairy Broom is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and free from stress. If the plant does become infested, use an insecticidal soap to control the pests. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged, so make sure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
The Hairy Broom is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in Portugal, Spain, and North Africa. It grows in dry, rocky areas and is adapted to hot and dry summers. It can tolerate drought and is well-suited for xeriscaping, which is landscaping with drought-tolerant plants.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water the Hairy Broom?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the Hairy Broom’s hardiness zone?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7a to 9b.
Q: Does the Hairy Broom attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s bright yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How tall does the Hairy Broom grow?
A: The plant grows up to 2 meters in height.
Related Plants
- Cytisus Monspessulanus
- Cytisus Scoparius
- Cytisus X Praecox
References
- “Cytisus Hirsutus (Hairy Broom).” Gardenia.net.
- “Cytisus Hirsutus.” Royal Horticultural Society.
- “Hairy Broom.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
