Mount Etna Broom

One of the most elegant and architectural of all garden trees, Genista aetnensis forms a large, wispy, semi-evergreen shrub or small tree with a distinctive cascading habit. Native to the slopes of Mount Etna, it is perfectly adapted to poor soils and hot sun. The stems are green and mostly leafless, giving the plant a delicate, see-through appearance. In midsummer, the entire tree becomes a golden fountain, covered in thousands of small, pea-like yellow flowers that emit a sweet, pervasive scent. It is surprisingly hardy (H4) and can reach a height of 5-8 metres, making it an excellent specimen for a sun-drenched courtyard or a large gravel garden. It must have sharp drainage and full sun to thrive. Because of its light canopy, it is an ideal choice for planting over smaller, sun-loving perennials and bulbs, as it provides very little shade. Little pruning is required, other than to shape the young plant.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil; prefers neutral to acid.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.