Chamaecytisus hirsutus

Chamaecytisus hirsutus is a small shrub in the pea family. Its common names include hairy broom and clustered broom. Older sources call it Cytisus hirsutus. Its native range spans central and southeastern Europe to Crimea. It also occurs in southern Europe, including Italy and Greece. Wild plants grow on slopes, steppes, woodland edges, and dry meadows. They occur in hills and mountains, reaching about 4,920 feet [1,500 metres] above sea level.

This deciduous shrub has a loose, open shape. Garden plants reach 1–2 feet [0.3–0.61 metres] tall. Some reach 3 feet [0.91 metres], beyond the usual range. Their spread reaches about 2 feet [0.61 metres]. The green leaves are trifoliate, with three leaflets per leaf. Each leaflet has an oval to narrow oval shape. Leaflets reach about 0.06 feet [0.019 metres] long. Fine, silky hairs cover the lower leaf surfaces. The plant loses its leaves for winter.

Yellow flowers with orange tones open in May and June. Each bloom has the pea-like form of its family. Flowers grow from the leaf axils in small groups. Each group holds two to four blooms. Individual flowers reach about 0.13 feet [0.038 metres] long. Flat seed pods follow the flowers. Rough hairs cover the pods, which reach a similar length. They ripen from late summer into early autumn. Both flowers and fruit add interest to garden plantings.

Grow this shrub in full sun for best results. It also accepts some light shade. Choose sandy or gravelly loam that drains well. It prefers moderate soil moisture rather than wet ground. Established plants can cope with some drought. The reported hardiness range is USDA zones 5–7. Prune just after flowering when the shape needs work. Seeds and semi-hardwood cuttings offer ways to raise new plants. Soaking or scarifying seeds before sowing can help propagation.

Use hairy broom in borders or along woodland edges. It also suits areas where plants can spread naturally. Seeds can produce colonies, and favorable sites may encourage weedy growth. Routine care needs are low. Serious insect and disease problems are not reported. Leaf spot and blight can still occur. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. That lack of use does not establish that eating it is safe.