Cytisus decumbens

Cytisus decumbens

Native to:
Albania, France, Greece, Italy, NW. Balkan Pen., Spain, Switzerland

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Cytisus
Species:
Cytisus decumbens
USDA Symbol:
CYDE8

Growth Characteristics

Height:
20 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
may,jun
Bloom Colors:
yellow
Ground Cover:
Yes
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Resprouts from root crown after fire; typical of many leguminous shrubs in Mediterranean-climate ecosystems.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
prefers open, sunny habitats

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
14–42 days
Notes:
Scarification of hard seed coat recommended before cold stratification. Soaking in hot water as alternative to mechanical scarification.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20°C. Seed germinates within 3 months Requires scarification. Nick or rub between sheets of sandpaper. Requires soaking. Place in warm water until seeds swell, usually 24-48 hours. Discard water and any seeds that remain floating. * soak in HOT water

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society