Cytisus multiflorus aka White Spanish Broom

Cytisus multiflorus is a deciduous shrub in the pea family, Fabaceae. Its common names include white Spanish broom and Portuguese broom. It comes from Portugal and Spain, on the Iberian Peninsula. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. People have introduced it to other parts of Europe and beyond. These include New Zealand, parts of Australia, and the western United States.

This upright shrub has a bushy form and slender, greyish shoots. Garden plants reach about 5–8 feet (1.5–2.5 metres) tall. They can spread to about the same width. The RHS gives two to five years as its maturity range. It loses its leaves for winter rather than keeping year-round foliage. Small flowers cover the shoots in late spring and early summer. Their pale, creamy white colour gives the plant its common name. This heavy bloom makes it useful as a flowering garden shrub.

Grow white Spanish broom in full sun with good soil drainage. The RHS favours moderately fertile soil, with an acid pH preferred. It also lists neutral and alkaline soils as suitable. Sand, loam, and chalk appear among its listed soil types. Yet shallow, chalky ground can cause chlorosis, which yellows the foliage. PFAF also records growth in dry soil with few nutrients. The plant tolerates drought and suits dry to moist conditions. The RHS rates it H5 for UK hardiness. PFAF lists USDA zones 6–9.

White Spanish broom suits rock gardens, raised beds, and gravel gardens. The RHS also suggests coastal gardens, borders, and informal planting. Both exposed and sheltered sites can suit it. Choose its place with care, since it dislikes being moved. When pruning, avoid cutting back into old wood. Grow new plants from seed in a cold frame. Sow the seed in spring or autumn. Another option is semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. Broom gall mites and honey fungus are possible problems.

This is an ornamental plant, not a food crop. PFAF lists no known edible or medicinal uses. The RHS warns that eating it can harm people and dogs. It also advises gloves and other protection when handling the plant. PFAF flags weed potential, so its spread deserves attention. Its introduction to a region alone does not establish invasive behaviour there.