Mediterranean Broom
Genista linifolia
- Native to:
- Algeria, Baleares, Corse, France, Morocco, Spain
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Fabaceae
- Genus:
- Genista
- Species:
- Genista linifolia
- USDA Symbol:
- GELI5
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Shrub
- Height:
- 300 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- mar,apr,may,jun
- Bloom Colors:
- yellow
- Landscaping Shrub:
- Yes
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Genista Broom Moth (Uresiphita reversalis)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- bees
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
- Salt Tolerant:
- Yes
- Fragrant:
- Yes
- Fire Ecology:
- Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
- Fire Notes:
- Resprouts from root crown after fire; fire stimulates vigorous regrowth typical of Mediterranean broom species.
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:
- native to Mediterranean regions with poor soil fertility
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- None required
- Scarification:
- Seed coat scarification required before sowing
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Scarification by hot water treatment or mechanical abrasion improves germination. Seeds may benefit from soaking in near-boiling water overnight before sowing.
The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI