Broom
Cytisus scopariusfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 4E7C — Cytisus scoparius
Cytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scopariusCytisus scoparius
IOverview
Overview
Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is a shrub native to Idaho and known for its light and airy form. It thrives in dry to moist conditions and prefers well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to heavy clay, with a pH between 5.5 and 7. The plant reaches heights of up to 2.4 meters and spreads out to about 3 meters wide. Broom is notable for its edible flowers, which can be enjoyed in various culinary applications. Its distinctive feature includes its ability to adapt to different soil types while maintaining a shrub-like habit.
Quick answers
What is Broom?
Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is a shrub native to Idaho and known for its light and airy form. It thrives in dry to moist conditions and prefers well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to heavy clay, with a pH between 5.5 and 7. The plant reaches heights of up to 2.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Broom thrives in light to moist conditions and prefers well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 5-8 and can grow up to 2.4 meters tall with a spread of 3 meters. Broom flowers are edible and make for an attractive addition to the garden. Ensure the soil pH ranges between 5.5 and 7 for best growth. Provide adequate but not excessive water, as it prefers dry to moist conditions. This shrub can be propagated through cuttings or seeds.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-8
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
2.4 m × 3 m
Soil pH
5.5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Broom for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple shrub that thrives in Idaho's climate and requires minimal care.
- 1
What you'll need
Broom seeds or young plants, garden gloves, trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Broom in early spring or late fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.5 and 7, and prepare containers if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors before transplanting them outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells, prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Broom in late winter to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: Coffee, Condiment
Other uses:Weaving materialCraftingDyeEssential OilFibertextilesErosion controlTanninLumberGround coverNitrogen fixerFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Europe22 regions
native (22)AustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandItalyNetherlandsNorwayPolandPortugalRomaniaRussiaSpainSwedenSwitzerlandUkraineUnited Kingdom
Broader regions
native:Baltic States, Idaho, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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