Genista germanica

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae

What it is like

Genista germanica is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid and very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Thickets, poor pastures and heaths.

C. and W. Europe.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

Formerly cultivated as a medicinal plant. No further details.

Miscellany: Various medicinal actions that need more clarification.

Other

Rating: 1

A yellow dye is obtained from the plant.

Dye: Plants that provide dyes.

Miscellany: A rag-bag of items that are difficult to categorise.

Nitrogen Fixer: Plants that fix nitrogen in the soil

How it is grown

Easily grown in a light well-drained soil in a sunny position. Plants grow very rank in rich soils. Prefers a rather dry soil. Succeeds in acid or basic soils. Plants resent root disturbance and should be placed in their permanent positions as soon as possible. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.

Propagating it: The seed requires a period of cold stratification and is best sown autumn in a cold frame. Pre-soak stored seed for 24 hours in warm water and sow February in a cold frame. Good germination. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 10 cm with a heel, July/August in a frame. Roots are formed in the spring. Cuttings of ripe wood, 5 - 10 cm with a heel, September/October in a frame. Good percentage. Plant out the following autumn.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

G. villosa. Cytisus dalmaticus. Visiani.