Fabaceae

Cytisus scoparius subsp. scoparius

Common Names: Scotch broom Synonyms: Cytisus scoparius

Plant Form: Erect multi-stemmed shrub. Size: Up to 4 m tall. Stem: Numerous with pronounced ridges, sometimes woody. Leaves: Small opposite narrow leaves or absent. Flowers: Yellow pea-like, 2 cm long, singular or in pairs, can appear dense. Fruit and Seeds: Brown to black pea-like pods up to 7 cm long. Containing 5-22 yellowish brown to olive seeds. Habitat: Typically areas over 500 mm of rain. Many suitable habitats. River banks, forest margins and roadside areas. Distinguishing Features: Stem ridges and small or absent leaves help distinguish from other brooms. Impacts: Competely alters ecosystems, negatively affects biodiversity, reduces available grazing land, unpalatable for stock.

Flowers and immature pod

Growth habit

Reddish flowers

Broom-like stems