Cytisus scoparius

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Cytisus scoparius
Also known as: Broom

Plant Properties

Layer: Shrub
Format: Smal
Height: 2.40 m
Width: 1.00 m
Growth Rate: Fast
Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 5-8
Soil Moisture:
Permeable, Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral Basic
Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Flowers, Coffee, Condiment
Edibility:
(1)
Medicinal:
(3)
Features:
Basket-making, Dye, Ethereal oil, Fibers, Paper, Repellent, Wood, Bee plant, Carbon farming, Nitrogen, Fragrant

Description

The flower buds of the plant are pickled and serve as an alternative to capers. They can also be added to salads. However, be aware of the toxicity as explained above. The soft green tips of the plant are used as hops to give beer a bitter taste and make it more intoxicating. The roasted seeds can serve as a coffee substitute.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 15/04
End of Harvest: 30/06

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild Description
Cydonia oblonga
Quince
Cydonia oblonga enhances soil fertility and provides shade, benefiting Cytisus scoparius.
Fagus sylvatica
Beech
Fagus sylvatica provides shelter from harsh weather and improves the microclimate for Cytisus scoparius.
Halesia carolina
Silver-bell tree
Halesia carolina attracts beneficial insects and improves pollination for Cytisus scoparius.
Morus alba
White mulberry
Morus alba provides berries for wildlife, promoting biodiversity around Cytisus scoparius.
Quercus robur
English oak
Quercus robur offers sturdy structure and habitat for various wildlife, enhancing ecosystem stability with Cytisus scoparius.