Cytisus scoparius Ruby

Cytisus scoparius 'Ruby' is a small bush with a compact habit. Highly floriferous, it produces a profusion of ruby-red flowers in late spring.

This 1.5m (5ft) tall broom has a globose habit. It is quite compact with a light appearance. Its flexible stems bear narrow, single, alternate, deciduous, green leaves, 6 to 10mm (0.2 to 0.4 in) long. In May, clusters of papilionaceous flowers, about 2cm (0.8 in) in diameter, gather at the ends of the branches. Fruits then develop into black pods. The fruit pods can cause staining to pathways, buildings, and cars. Prune it after flowering.

Easy to grow, Cytisus scoparius 'Ruby' adapts well to any light, poor, well-drained soil, preferably slightly acidic, in a sunny position. Not demanding, it will be satisfied with a severe pruning after flowering to avoid fruiting, which quickly exhausts the plant. This also helps to keep a compact habit that does not become bare at the base. Its lifespan is quite short, around 5 to 8 years.

Plant with dwarf conifers, spindles, and perennial geraniums, in flower beds, rockeries, slopes, and wild gardens.