Genista tinctoria

Small shrub, 0.3-0.8 m tall and wide, occasionally larger, upright-bushy, somewhat squat, green twigs without thorns, medium to fast-growing.

Inflorescences like panicles with numerous yellow butterfly flowers, from June to August (September), persistent; one of the few indigenous summer flowering plants.

Inconspicuous.

Small, simple, lanceolate-elliptical, medium to dark-green, no autumn colours.

Deep roots that collect nitrogen, somewhat sensitive; do not transplant once established.

Full sun or light shade, likes warmth and tolerates heat, not very frost hardy.

On all moderately dry to fresh, well drained, acidic or only slightly alkaline, poor substrates; increased sensitivity to frost on heavy soil; avoid fertilising.

Avoid cutting, only remove frost damage.

Zone 5a