Gorse
Ulex europaeus
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Pl. 3EF8 — Ulex europaeus
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IOverview
Overview
Gorse, scientifically known as Ulex europaeus, is a shrub native to the coastal and upland areas of Western Europe, including Belgium, Corsica, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Madeira, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland. This plant is valued for its edible flowers and shoots, which can be used in various culinary applications. Gorse thrives in a variety of soil types, preferring light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH range of 5 to 5.5. Its distinctive feature lies in its bright yellow flowers that cover the plant from late winter through early summer, making it a popular ornamental choice for gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Gorse?
Gorse, scientifically known as Ulex europaeus, is a shrub native to the coastal and upland areas of Western Europe, including Belgium, Corsica, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Madeira, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Gorse 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 with zones ranging from 5-9. Gorse can be propagated through cuttings, which is a common method for gardeners. Ensure the plant receives plenty of sunlight, as it requires a high light level of 8/10. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Given its native range across Europe and Madeira, gorse adapts well to various climates within these regions.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
1.5 m tall
Soil pH
5–5.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Gorse for the first time
8steps
Start with planting gorse in a sunny spot, as it thrives best for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Gorse seeds or young plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant gorse in spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 5 and 5.5, and prepare a sunny spot for planting.
- 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 regular watering, especially during dry spells, and prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune gorse in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and prevent overgrowth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, neglecting regular pruning, using incorrect pH soil, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersShoots
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:DyeFertilizerFire starterHedgerowPest controlPioneerSoap makingErosion controlNitrogen fixerFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
12 native · 18 introduced
Distribution
12 native · 18 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 12 native· 18 introduced
Europe14 regions
native (10)BelgiumFranceGermanyIrelandItalyNetherlandsPortugalSpainSwitzerlandUnited Kingdom
introduced (4)AustriaDenmarkPortugalSpain
Asia1 region
introduced (1)Bangladesh
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)ColombiaCosta Rica
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Algeria
Broader regions
introduced:Argentina Northeast, Chatham Is., Cape Provinces, Antipodean Is., California, Brazil Southeast, Brazil South, Ascension, Czechoslovakia, Argentina South
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 3ef8f27f-bb8c-4b4b-ad1d-6bea2257003d
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