Burkwood Scotch Broom

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-6 Feet

Mature Spread

3-6 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

Burkwood Scotch Broom, or Cytisus scoparius Burkwoodii, is a dense, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with small oval leaves, and masses of vivid-green, angular, wand-like stems reaching heights of 3 to 6 feet tall with an equal spread. These stems erupt in mid-May with fragrant, floriferous, sweet-pea shaped blooms that are deep red with lighter pink keels, just touched with edges of bright yellow. These incredible sprays are a fantastic addition to cut flower arrangements and bouquets, and these twiggy mounds are a great edition to any landscape or garden. 

Native to Europe, the Burkwood Scotch Broom is an aggressive, open, upright grower with sweeping, broom-like branches. It is deer and rabbit resistant, and can tolerate windy and salty seashore climates and conditions. Bees and other critical pollinators will flock to the Burkwood Scotch Broom in spades. This plant will fill out all the way to the ground and does not require facer plants in front. It self-seeds with ease, so if you want a single specimen, be prepared to prune it just after it has finished flowering.    

Burkwood Scotch Broom Care

Burkwood Scotch Broom can thrive in many types of soils, and is highly tolerant of poor soil. It is drought tolerant and excels in areas with good drainage. It prefers areas with full sun, and will suffer in partial sun or dappled shade. Water new Burkwood Scotch Broom plants weekly until they are established. They should not require fertilization. 

It is best to prune your Burkwood Scotch Broom after it has finished flowering for the season to encourage optimal flowering in the coming season and lessen the production of seed pods. 

Burkwood Scotch Broom Spacing

Burkwood Scotch Broom can be planted as a single specimen, or en masse in large containers or borders. It makes a beautiful and unique informal hedge, and works well planted on slopes and steep banks. Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for xeriscaping and planting in areas with limited water resources. It should be planted 4 to 6 feet apart from center to center.