Spanish gorse

Spanish Gorse is a low-growing, deciduous, spiny shrub that brings a brilliant splash of golden yellow to sunny, dry spots in UK gardens, reminiscent of Mediterranean scrubland. In late spring and early summer, it becomes completely covered in pea-like, fragrant flowers, creating a truly dazzling display. The stems are densely packed with sharp spines, offering a good deterrent if used as a barrier. It thrives in full sun and extremely well-drained, poor soils, coping well with drought and coastal conditions. Ideal for rockeries, banks, or at the front of sunny borders. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, poor.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: May, Jun, Jul.