Contents
Description
Laburnocytisus is a unique hybrid plant that is a cross between two different genera, Laburnum and Cytisus. It is also commonly known as the broom laburnum or the Scotch laburnum. The plant is a member of the Fabaceae family and is native to Europe. What makes Laburnocytisus unique is that it is a graft-chimera, meaning it is a combination of two different genetically distinct tissues. The plant is created by grafting a Laburnum tree onto a Cytisus tree, causing them to grow together and form a hybrid plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Laburnocytisus |
Appearance
Laburnocytisus is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters in height. It has a broad, spreading habit and a rounded crown. The leaves are pinnate, with 7-9 leaflets that are oval in shape and light green in color. The flowers of Laburnocytisus are pea-like, bright yellow in color, and grow in long, hanging clusters. They bloom in late spring or early summer and are followed by brown, leathery seed pods that contain poisonous seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Laburnocytisus, it is important to provide it with the following:- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth begins.- Soil: The plant grows well in a variety of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic soil.- Sunlight: Laburnocytisus prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Laburnocytisus is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaf distortion and wilting.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and can cause leaf drop and stunted growth.- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil and can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt.
Habitat
Laburnocytisus is native to Europe and is commonly found in gardens and parks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-7.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Laburnocytisus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Laburnocytisus can be grown in containers. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and provide it with regular watering and fertilization.
Q: Is Laburnocytisus poisonous?
A: Yes, the seeds of Laburnocytisus are poisonous if ingested. Keep them away from children and pets.
Q: How often should I prune my Laburnocytisus?
A: Prune Laburnocytisus in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Can Laburnocytisus tolerate drought?
A: No, Laburnocytisus prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
Related Plants
– Laburnum- Cytisus- Genista- Lupinus- Wisteria
References
– “Laburnocytisus adamii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288675&isprofile=0&- “Laburnocytisus.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/laburnocytisus- “Laburnocytisus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/249419/Laburnocytisus-x-watereri-Voss-Frau-Willems>
