Scotch broom

Cytisus scoparius

Layer 3 · Shrubs
Nitrogen fixer

Status by region

No restrictions recorded in the lists we checked.

Checked against the European Union list (Regulation 1143/2014) · Portugal's national invasive species list (Decreto-Lei 92/2019).

Information based on the cited sources, not legal advice — always confirm your local rules.

About

Cytisus scoparius is a leguminous shrub native to Europe, characterised by its rapid growth in poor soils and nitrogen-fixing capacity. In permaculture systems, it works as an excellent pioneer plant, providing copious woody biomass for mulching after pruning. Its yellow spring flowering is furthermore an important attraction for bees and other essential pollinators in the food forest.

See which trees Scotch broom grows well with

These trees share this species' soil and climate — the pairing is inferred from conditions, not from a guild we have already seen.

No account needed.

Needs

Water: Low
Light: Full sun
Size: Erect shrub of 1 to 3 m
Mature diameter: 2 m
Soils: Loam, Sandy
Climates: Atlantic coast, Inland / Continental, Hot, dry Mediterranean, Mountain / cold

Calendar

January
February — Planting
March — Planting
April — Harvest
May — Harvest
June — Harvest
July
August
September
October — Planting
November — Planting
December

Harvest
Planting

Medicinal use: It possesses cardiotonic and diuretic properties, and should be used with care due to the toxicity of its alkaloids.

Where to buy

Central trees worth considering

May work well together — same soil and climate, complementary layers. We have not seen this combination in a generated guild yet.

May grow well with

Suggestions worked out from growing conditions — same soil and climate, complementary layers and functions. These are not observed guilds; treat them as a starting point to try on your own land.