Calicotome spinosa
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Calicotome spinosa

Calicotome Spinosa

ON THIS PLANT

Calicotome spinosa, the thorny broom or spiny broom, is a very spiny, densely branched shrub of the family Fabaceae which can reach up to three metres in height. It grows in the Western Mediterranean region on sunny slopes and dry, rocky ground. It is found in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria and Turkey, and it has been introduced to New Zealand. From March to June it produces bright yellow flowers which are borne singly or in small clusters. The seed-pods are 30mm long and are almost hairless, unlike those of the similar species Calicotome villosa.

PLATES
Calicotome spinosa leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Calicotome spinosa leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Calicotome spinosa flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Calicotome spinosa flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Calicotome spinosa fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Calicotome spinosa bark
PLATE 06 · bark

In the Home

Spiny broom has strong resistance to disease and is generally not prone to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs minimal watering, and larger plants usually do not require pruning. However, smaller plants should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Spiny broom is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not require much care experience.

ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

You might also like.