Cytisus scoparius - Broom

Broom: M, N, P, *, May-Jun

DECIDUOUS SHRUB growing to 2.4 m (7ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. Hardy to zone 5. It is in flower from May to June. The flower buds are pickled and used as a substitute for capers. The active ingredients in the plant is very changeable, which makes it rather unreliable medicinally though rarely, it is used in the treatment of heart complaints, acting upon the electrical conductivity of the heart, slowing and regulating its transmission of impulses. The musky-scented and rich butter-yellow flowers are pollinated by Bees. Produces POLLEN & NECTAR – in profusion (the pollen is brownish-orange). The plant is not self-fertile. It is salt tolerant. It can fix Nitrogen in the soil. It is noted for attracting wildlife. SEEDS 1g/£1.55