Genista pilosa aka Hairy Greenweed

Genista pilosa is a low shrub in the pea family. Its common names include hairy greenweed, trailing broom, and silkyleaf broom. It grows wild across much of Europe, including Britain. Its range runs from southern Sweden to the Mediterranean. People have also introduced it to the Baltic States. It sheds its leaves each year and grows slowly.

The branches spread close to the ground, forming a mat. Some stems grow upright, while others trail or cascade. Garden plants reach about 1–1.6 feet [0.3–0.5 metres] tall. They spread about 2–3.3 feet [0.6–1 metre] wide. Fine hairs cover the slender green stems. Small, simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. Their upper sides are glossy and dark green. Soft, silver hairs cover the lower sides. The leaves have smooth edges and an oval shape.

Yellow, pea-shaped flowers can cover the leaves and stems. They grow in racemes at the ends of shoots. Each flower is about 0.03 feet [0.01 metres] long. RHS gives May to June as the flowering season. North Carolina State reports bloom from spring into summer. The flowers can pollinate themselves, yet attract bees and butterflies. Brown, flat pods follow the flowers. They release small, winged seeds in late summer or early autumn. The seeds may stay dormant for several years.

Give this shrub full sun and soil that drains well. It suits poor, sandy or rocky ground and dry summers. RHS also lists loam and chalk as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. Once established, it can cope with drought and light foot traffic. Shade leads to loose growth and fewer flowers. High humidity can cause problems, including powdery mildew. Sources place it in USDA zones 5–8 and UK rating H6. RHS gives two to five years for reaching full size.

Use it as ground cover beside paths or on slopes. It also suits rock, coastal, cottage, and wildlife gardens. Its roots help enrich soil by fixing nitrogen. It needs little pruning; avoid cutting back into old wood. Raise new plants from seed or summer semi-ripe cuttings. Aphids, spider mites, and gall mites may attack it. Honey fungus may affect plants, though the risk remains unclear. North Carolina State records use in traditional medicine. The supplied species evidence does not establish food uses or toxicity.