Contents
Description
Genista Germanica, also known as the German broom, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and is commonly found in rocky areas, dry meadows, and heathlands. The plant is known for its beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and 1.5 meters wide and has slender, green stems with small leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Genista |
Appearance
The German broom has slender, green stems with small leaves that are up to 1 cm long. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and 1.5 meters wide and has a rounded shape. It produces beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, which are about 1 cm long and grow in clusters. The plant also produces small, green seed pods that turn brown when ripe.
Care Guide
The German broom requires moderate watering and should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many flowers. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The German broom is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and caterpillars. It may also develop root rot if overwatered or if the soil does not have good drainage. Powdery mildew may also be a problem if the plant is grown in humid conditions.
Habitat
The German broom is native to Europe and Western Asia and is commonly found in rocky areas, dry meadows, and heathlands. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate poor soil conditions and is often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the German broom be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the German broom can be grown in containers but it may not grow as large or produce as many flowers.
Q: How often should the German broom be fertilized?
A: The German broom should be fertilized once in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the German broom?
A: The German broom is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Q: Can the German broom tolerate shade?
A: The German broom can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many flowers.
Related Plants
- Genista tinctoria
- Genista pilosa
- Genista lydia
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/broom-plant/growing-broom-shrubs.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10271/genista-germanica/details
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/genista-germanica-german-broom
