In other English-speaking countries, the most common name is Scotch broom (or Scot's broom ); however, it is known as English broom in Australia.
What is a Scotch broom?
Scotch broom is an upright shrub in the pea family, with yellow flowers. It grows primarily in open, dry meadows and along roads. Scotch broom crowds out native species and negatively impacts wildlife habitat. It is native to Europe.
Does Scotch broom grow in Washington?
Scotch broom is an upright shrub in the pea family, with yellow flowers. It grows primarily in open, dry meadows and along roads. Scotch broom crowds out native species and negatively impacts wildlife habitat. It is native to Europe. Is It Here Yet? Yes, Scotch broom has been documented in many parts of Washington.
What are the effects of Scotch broom shrub?
Effects of scotch broom shrub include competition with native forest plants. In addition, the scotch broom shrub produces soil conditions which encourage growth of other non-native weeds, choking out native foliage.
How are Scotch broom seeds dispersed?
Scotch broom may also be dispersed by goats and horses digesting the seeds. The small leaves occur in groups of three. Each leaf is oblong and pointed at both ends. During drought, Scotch broom sheds its leaves. LEFT: Scotch broom flowers. RIGHT: The fruits are blackish-brown pods with hairs on the seams.
Is Scotch broom or bloom?
Scotch broom is a woody shrub that can grow to 10 feet tall, although the average plant is usually 3 to 5 feet. Plants have sharply angled branches and bright yellow flowers. Plants bloom between March and June, before leaves emerge.
What is another name for Scotch broom?
Cytisus scoparius (syn. Sarothamnus scoparius), the common broom or Scotch broom, is a deciduous leguminous shrub native to western and central Europe.
Is it Scotch broom or Scotch broom?
Scotch broom (Cytisis scopariusL.)is a highly invasive perennial shrub. It can be recognized by its bright yellow flowers, clover-like leaves, and shrubby growth habit. This species was introduced to the United States in the 1850s to control soil erosion and as a landscape ornamental.
What is Scotch broom called in Scotland?
Cytisus scopariusKnown locally as 'Kotagiri Poovu' (Flower of Kotagiri), busloads of tourists from the plains would pause near particularly infested hillsides to take in their yellowness. Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is from, yup, Scotland . And England, actually, where it's called err… Broom.
How did Scotch broom get its name?
Scotch broom gets its name because the plant is historically used in Scotland to make brooms. Photosynthesis occurs in the green stems and not in the leaves (like most plants). Used to make cloth, coffee and as a diuretic.
Why is Scotch broom a problem?
Scotch broom easily invades disturbed sites, natural areas, dunes, and forest lands. This weed displaces native and beneficial plants and smothers tree seedlings, hampering reforestation efforts. It causes loss of grassland and open forest habitat. Flowers and seeds are toxic to humans and most animals.
Is Scotch broom poisonous to touch?
It can cause heart and circulation problems. It might also cause side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. Poisoning can occur with doses greater than 30 grams of Scotch broom. Symptoms of poisoning include dizziness, headache, heartbeat changes, leg weakness, sweating, sleepiness, and widening of the pupils.
Does Scotch broom have a scent?
First, the pollen of Scotch broom is very heavy and not very likely to be blowing in the wind. However, the odor is thought to trigger headaches and other miseries in people with other allergies such as to grass.
Why is it called a broom tree?
Its bright yellow flowers appear in spring, from April to June, and smell of vanilla. It is quite likely that Broom got its name from the fact that its long, whip-like stems were cut and tied together to make brushes.
Is broom native to Scotland?
Native to the UK and grown in Scotland. Broom can grow up to 3m in height and is commonly found in woodland and heathland areas as well as along hedgerows. Broom flowers from May to June.
How did scotch broom get to Canada?
Scotch broom was introduced from the Mediterranean and is an escaped garden plant in Canada. It easily invades sunny, disturbed sites such as rangelands, roadsides, and areas of recent logging.
What else looks like Scotch broom?
Similar Species Scotch broom can be confused with French broom (Genista monspessulana), Portuguese broom (Cystisus striatus), and common gorse (Ulex europaeus). All species occur in similar habitats, but their appearances differ slightly.
Is Sweet broom the same as Scotch broom?
Broom Types Cytisus x spachianus (sweet broom) is a hybrid with bright yellow, sweetly fragrant flowers in late spring. Cytisus x 'Lena' (Lena scotch broom) a dwarf variety that grows 4 feet tall. Foliage is deep green and flowers are ruby red and yellow through spring and early summer.
What is the difference between Scotch broom and French broom?
Scotch broom flowers are similar to those of French broom, but they are larger and deeper yellow. Seed pods are similar, too, except that they have hairs only on their seams, instead of being fuzzy all over.
Is Scotch broom good for anything?
Overview. Scotch broom is a plant. The flower and the parts that grow above the ground are used as medicine. Despite serious safety concerns, Scotch broom is used for heart problems including fluid retention (edema), poor circulation, low blood pressure, fast heartbeat, and irregular heartbeat.
How tall does Scotch Broom grow?
Scotch broom, a non-regulated Class B noxious weed, is an evergreen shrub that grows 6-10 feet tall and forms dense stands throughout King County, including in pastures, empty lots, and on roadsides. Leaves are small, short-lived, and simple or 3-parted. Branches are erect and angled, with prominent ridges. In March-June, produces bright yellow, pea-like flowers all along stems, followed by black, hard seedpods with hairy edges. Reproduces via seeds that can persist in soil up to 60 years. Prefers full sun, but tolerates shade.
What is Scot's Broom?
This familiar plant, also known as Scot's Broom, is an invasive flowering shrub that grows commonly throughout the Puget Sound region. Originally introduced from Europe as an ornamental and for erosion control, it is highly aggressive and forms dense, monotypic stands which reduce wildlife habitat and hinder re-vegetation of upland sites and wetland buffers.
Can you control Scotch Broom in King County?
Because Scotch broom is so widespread, property owners in King County are not required to control it and we are not generally tracking infestations. We can provide advice on how to control Scotch broom, but there is generally no legal requirement to do so. Many public agencies and conservation organizations are actively working to remove Scotch broom where they have the resources, and may have opportunities for you to volunteer. However,only remove Scotch broom where you have permission to work! For information on useful tools for removing woody plants like Scotch broom, see this post by Northwest Illinois Forestry Association. King County residents can borrow a Weed Wrench or other similar tools from the Noxious Weed Control Program. For more information, contact our office .
Is Scotch Broom legal in King County?
Legal status in King County, Washington. Public and private landowners are not generally required to control infestations of Scotch broom that occur on their property in King County, Washington.
Is Scotch Broom a Class B weed?
Scotch broom is a Class B Noxious Weed in Washington, first listed in 1988. Because control is not generally required in King County, it is on the list of Non-Regulated Noxious Weeds in King County.
Spotlights
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. Washington Invasive Species Council.
Selected Resources
The section below contains highly relevant resources for this species, organized by source. Or, to display all related content view all resources for Scotch Broom.
Citations
Integrated Taxonomic Information System. Cytisus scoparius. [Accessed Sep 10, 2014].
What is Scotch Broom?
Scotch broom is a plant. The flower and the parts that grow above the ground are used as medicine.
Why do women use Scotch brooms?
Women use Scotch broom for heavy menstrual periods and for bleeding after childbirth.
Does scotch broom help with lithium?
Scotch broom might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic.". Taking scotch broom might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium.
Is Scotch Broom safe for heart?
Other conditions. More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of Scotch broom for these uses. Side Effects. When taken by mouth: Scotch broom is LIKELY UNSAFE when taken by mouth. It can cause heart and circulation problems.
Does Scotch Broom cause high blood pressure?
Scotch broom contains a chemical called tyramine. Large amounts of tyramine can cause high blood pressure. But the body naturally breaks down tyramine to get rid of it. This usually prevents the tyramine from causing high blood pressure.
Does haloperidol help with scotch broom?
Haloperidol (Haldol) interacts with SCOTCH BROOM. The body breaks down scotch broom to get rid of it. Haloperidol (Haldol) seems to decrease the breakdown of scotch broom. Taking scotch broom along with haloperidol (Haldol) might increase the risk of serious side effects of scotch broom.
Can you take scotch broom with quinidine?
Taking scotch broom along with quinidine might increase the risk of serious side effects of scotch broom. Do not take scotch broom if you are taking quinidine. Scotch broom might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic.". Taking scotch broom might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium.
Where did Scotch Broom originate?
Scotch broom was introduced from Europe as a garden ornamental by early settlers of the Pacific Coast. Later it was used to prevent erosion and stabilize banks and sand dunes. The woody shrub establishes quickly in disturbed areas, according to Andy Hulting, a weed specialist for the Oregon State University Extension Service.
How long does Scotch Broom seed last?
Keep an eye out for seedlings each spring and pull them up, roots and all, while they are small. Since Scotch broom seed lasts for years in the soil, vigilance is necessary to prevent reinvasion by new seedlings.
Can you be liable for damage from a scotch broom?
You can be liable for injury or damage from herbicide use. Scientists continue to investigate biological control possibilities for Scotch broom and other noxious weeds. The Oregon Department of Agriculture has released a species of seed weevil whose larvae feed on the developing Scotch broom seedpods.
Is Scotch Broom an invasive species?
CORVALLIS, Ore. – Although admired for its yellow blooms, the Scotch broom shrub has become an invasive species throughout the Pacific Northwest, where it competes with native plants and forms dense stands that are difficult to manage and remove.
How to control Scotch Broom?
Foliar spray, basal bark treatment, and cutting stems and painting the fresh cut with herbicide can provide effective control. Please refer to the PNW Weed Management Handbook, the report on Scotch broom from the book "Weed Control in Natural Areas in the Western United States", and the herbicide section starting on page 119 in the publication Biology and Biological Control of Common Gorse and Scotch Broom. Contact your county noxious weed coordinator for further information.
What is the difference between Spanish broom and French broom?
Spanish broom has round stems and flowers only at stem tips. French brooms's leaves are all three-parted and flowers are in clusters of 4-10. Gorse has spines on its stems. If you need help with plant identification, please contact your county noxious weed coordinator.
Is Spanish broom a noxious weed?
Spanish broom ( Spartium junceum) and French broom ( Genista monspessulana), Class A noxious weeds in Washington, and gorse (Ulex europaeus), a Class B no xious weed in Washington, look similar to Scotch broom. Spanish broom has round stems and flowers only at stem tips. French brooms's leaves are all three-parted and flowers are in clusters of 4-10. Gorse has spines on its stems. If you need help with plant identification, please contact your county no xious weed coordinator.
What Is It?
Scotch broom is an upright shrub in the pea family, with yellow flowers. It grows primarily in open, dry meadows and along roads. Scotch broom crowds out native species and negatively impacts wildlife habitat. It is native to Europe.
Why Should I Care?
Scotch broom crowds out native species and negatively impacts wildlife habitat. It can form dense, impenetrable stands that degrade farmland and create fire hazards. It dense stands may prevent or slow forest regeneration and restoration of upland sites and wetland buffers.
How Can We Stop It?
To prevent spread, wash vehicles, boots, and animals that may have been in infested areas. Remove Scotch broom from your property where feasible.
What Are Its Characteristics?
Scotch broom is an upright perennial shrub, which grows 3-12 feet tall, with slender sharply angled greenish brown branches.
How Do I Distinguish It From Native Species?
Scotch broom may be confused with Spanish broom ( Spartium junceum ), a Class A noxious weed, or gorse ( Ulex europaeus ), a Class B noxious weed.
When was Scotch Broom introduced?
Scotch broom shrub was introduced as a landscape ornamental as early as the 1800’s , then used extensively for erosion control in public landscapes, such as roadside plantings, but quickly became a nuisance. Once established, it is difficult to kill scotch broom.
Why is Scotch Broom a problem?
Reasons to Kill Scotch Broom. Effects of scotch broom shrub include competition with native forest plants. In addition, the scotch broom shrub produces soil conditions which encourage growth of other non-na tive weeds, choking out native foliage. Wildlife find the shrub unpalatable and may be driven from a habitat overtaken by the scotch broom.
What is Scotch Broom Control?
Scotch Broom Control: Getting Rid Of Scotch Broom Shrub From The Yard. Though sometimes attractive in the landscape, the scotch broom shrub ( Cytisus scoparius) is a noxious weed in the northwestern U.S. and responsible for the loss of a good deal of that areas’ timber income due to crowding out native species.
How long do Scotch Broom seeds last?
The hard-coated seeds remain viable for as long as 80 years. Mechanical removal with large tillers and plows often does not work well with controlling scotch broom, and encourages re-growth. Scotch broom shrubs most often overtake areas where soil had been disturbed, as by tilling.
How many pods of scotch broom are there?
When in flower, the entire bush appears to be yellow. After flowering, scotch broom will produce several dozen large pods that contain hard brown seeds.
Is Scotch Boom invasive?
It is an aggressively invasive plant that will grow thickly rather quickly. Scotch boom has tear-shaped leaves that grow in groups of three and mostly bright yellow flowers with occasional purple and red flowers mixed in. The flowers grow in clusters along the length of the stems.
Is a broom plant invasive?
Note: Although broom plants produce attractive, sweet-pea like blooms, they have become highly invasive in many areas. It is important to check with your local extension office before adding the plant or its relatives to your landscape to see if allowable in your area. Printer Friendly Version.
What is Scotch Broom?
Scotch broom was first admired by botanists for its bright yellow blooming and dense growth. Horticulturists happily offered the plant, and others of the Cytisus family, for purchase to their customers for landscaping purposes.
How to deal with invasive Scotch Broom?
Smart tip to deal with invasive Scotch broom. Don’t fall for the trap of burning off patches of Scotch broom. Seeds are fire-resistant, and it will sprout back much faster than other native plants! Better to pull them out or prune them to a stump once a month until the root system is drained and dies off.
Is Scotch Broom a problem?
In the United States, Scotch broom is especially problematic along the West Coast. Weather patterns there often lead to dry seasons and fires wipe native plants out. Then, on bare ground, Scotch broom sprouts and dominates all other native plants within a few years.
Is Scotch Broom invasive?
Scotch broom, although a delightful shrub, is not to be planted everywhere. This European native fought with other plants to secure its own living space in its native habitat. This gave Cytisus scoparius strong resilience and adaptive power that makes it very invasive in many other places! In many states in the USA, it’s declared an invasive weed.
How tall is Scotch Broom?
Scotch broom ( Cystisus scoparius) is an attractive shrub that rises to about 10 feet (3 m.) high with an open, airy growth pattern. Despite the beauty of its bright yellow spring flowers, it can easily look disheveled if not pruned correctly.
What Age to Prune a Scotch Broom Plant?
It is also important to begin trimming when the tree is young. Begin your scotch broom pruning before the tree is mature, and prune back its stems annually. This stimulates growth to prevent that scraggly look.
Is a broom plant invasive?
Note: Although broom plants produce attractive, sweet-pea like blooms, they have become highly invasive in many areas. It is important to check with your local extension office before adding the plant or its relatives to your landscape to see if allowable in your area.
Can you cut back a scotch broom?
Once the tree has grown large, it is too late to repair its scraggly look. According to experts, the mature branches do not retain many green buds. If you cut these branches back severely, you are not likely to get a fuller plant; in fact, if you prune a scotch broom shrub in this manner, you may kill it.
Legal Status in King County, Washington
Additional Information on Scotch Broom
- Scotch broom weed alert (603 KB Acrobat file)
- Scotch broom best management practices (383 KB Acrobat file)
- Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board(external link)
What to Do If You Find This Plant in King County, Washington
- Because Scotch broom is so widespread, property owners in King County are not required to control it and we are not generally tracking infestations. We can provide advice on how to control Scotch broom, but there is generally no legal requirement to do so. Many public agencies and conservation organizations are actively working to remove Scotch bro...