Also known as Spiny Broom
Thorny Broom (Calicotome spinosa) is a spiny, deciduous shrub native to the Mediterranean region, forming dense thickets with bright yellow flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water deeply when soil is dry to touch, allow to drain. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, but can tolerate light frost once established. Protect from severe cold.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 5-10 cm of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain. Reduce watering significantly in winter, as the plant prefers drier conditions during its dormant period.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can be done in early spring before new growth begins to shape the plant and remove any winter damage.
Propagate by seeds sown in spring or by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require scarification or stratification to improve germination rates.
Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining medium.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in spring, or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Thorny Broom generally prefers to be slightly root-bound, so avoid over-potting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Thorny Broom (Calicotome spinosa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Calicotome |
| Species | Calicotome spinosa |
Similar in genus Calicotome
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
