Ulex europaeus aka Common Gorse

Taxonomy

Ulex europaeus, also known as gorse, common gorse, furze, or whin, is a resilient and attractive species of flowering plant in the pea or legume family, Fabaceae. Native to the British Isles and Western Europe, this green shrub grows up to 10 ft (3 m) tall and is covered in thorns with small, scale-like leaves. Its small, yellow flowers bloom year-round and provide unique nectar for bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscaping or hedging. European Gorse is also a rare houseplant that thrives in abundant sunlight and needs regular watering, preferably placed less than 3 feet from a window. In summary, whether in a garden or indoors, Ulex europaeus is a fantastic addition that adds beauty and benefits to any environment.

Common names

Common Gorse, Furze, Whin, European Gorse

How to care for Common Gorse

Difficulty

Caring for Common Gorse is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Common Gorse should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Common Gorse requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Furze is always in the right place to thrive.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Common Gorse to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Region of origin

Common Gorse’s native range is Western Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia to Spain.


More info:
Wikipedia