Spanish gorse

A Mediterranean plant which does surprisingly well in our climate, Genista hispanica is related to our native gorse, but is smaller and deciduous. A small, low-growing shrub, with a neat, dense, spreading habit and green, spiny stems, it does particularly well on poor, free-draining soil. Leafy green flowering shoots bear masses of brilliant yellow, pea-like flowers in late spring and early summer. Spanish gorse is an easy plant requiring little pruning, and its dense growth makes it very useful as a weed-suppressor, ideal for planting on steep banks or in gravel, or hanging over a retaining wall.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any medium to light, free-draining soil, including chalky soil
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: Spring, summer
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: up to 2’ (60cm) Spread: 5’ (1.5m)