Scotch Broom Plant Care
Cytisus scoparius (L.) Link
Cytisus scoparius, the common broom or Scotch broom, is a deciduous leguminous shrub native to western and central Europe. In Great Britain and Ireland, the standard name is broom; this name is also used for other members of the Genisteae tribe, such as French broom or Spanish broom; and the term common broom is sometimes used for clarification.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–80°F
40–60%
What Is the Scotch Broom?
Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) belongs to the Fabaceae family within the Cytisus genus. Scotch Broom is native to western and central Europe. Scotch Broom is also known as Common Broom, Broom.
Scotch Broom displays an upright, branching shrub growth habit, reaching up to 5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 4 inches. Scotch Broom produces showy pea-like flowers in shades of yellow, pink, or purple.
Leaf size: approximately 1.5 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Scotch Broom?
Cytisus scoparius requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Scotch Broom Need?
Scotch Broom thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–5000 lux. Avoid placing Scotch Broom in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–5000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Scotch Broom Prefer?
Cytisus scoparius grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Scotch Broom prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
50–80°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Scotch Broom?
Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Scotch Broom to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Scotch Broom?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Scotch Broom?
Scotch Broom can be propagated through seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Scotch Broom Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Scotch Broom?
Scotch Broom is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, caterpillars. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Scotch Broom Need?
Scotch Broom grows outdoors in USDA Zone 5a – 8b. Native to western and central Europe, Scotch Broom is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Scotch Broom as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 5a – 8b
Keep exploring plants
Scotch Broom is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Cytisus genus — compare its care with other Cytisus species on PlantoScan.
Scotch Broom tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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