How to identify Spanish broom (Spartium junceum)

How to identify Spanish broom (Spartium junceum)

Spanish broom, also known as Rush broom

Spanish broom is a perennial shrub characterized by a multi-stemmed growth reaching up to 10 feet (3 meters) in height and width. Its deciduous nature features sparse leaves, while the stems are prominently broom-like. The remarkable attribute of spanish broom is its flowering habit which displays vividly when in season. Adaptable in well-drained soils, it thrives optimally in full sun, showcasing an excellent drought tolerance and resilience against seaside conditions. Additionally, spanish broom prospers on poor, rocky substrates, making it suitable for stabilizing riverbanks.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Spanish broom

Bright yellow pea-like flowers up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long in loose racemes.

Flat seed pods reaching 3 inches (7.6 cm) with a rough brownish exterior.

Sparse bright green leaves, 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, simple and not deeply veined.

Rush-like green stems turning woody, branching at the top, diameter around 0.2 inches (5 mm).

Multi-stemmed plant, up to 10 feet (3 meters) in height, broom-like appearance.

Detailed Traits of Spanish broom

Leaf Features

The leaves of spanish broom are bright green, small, and sparse. Each leaf grows up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long and is entire in shape, meaning they have smooth edges. They are ephemeral, lasting around 4 months, and are found on long, slender, green branchlets. The leaves are simple and not deeply veined, contributing to a more streamlined appearance. Their sparse distribution along the branchlets, coupled with their small size, is a key identifying feature.

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Flower Features

The flowers of spanish broom are a distinctive bright yellow, bearing a pea-like shape. Each flower measures up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long and is organized in loose terminal racemes. They emit a pleasant fragrance, enhancing their appeal. These flowers bloom prolifically from July until frost, creating a vibrant display throughout the late growing season. The key identifying features include their bright color, characteristic shape, and prolonged blooming period.

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Stem Features

The stems of spanish broom are rush-like and bright green, especially when young, and are almost leafless. As they mature, they develop a woody bark. These stems typically branch at the top and carry out significant photosynthesis in their green, younger stages. They transition from smooth to a more rugged texture with a thickness that varies but can be around 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter. The vibrant green to woody brown transformation is a key identifying feature.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of spanish broom presents as flat seed pods that mature to an approximate length of 3 inches (7.6 cm). These pods typically appear after the flowering period, housing multiple seeds within. When ripe, the textured pods may vary in color but generally present a brownish hue. The exterior of the pods is slightly rough, providing a distinctive tactile experience. Key identification features include their flatness and elongated shape, which are distinctive among other pod-bearing species.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Key Facts About Spanish broom

Attributes of Spanish broom

Spread

1.8 m to 3 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Gold

Fruit Color

Brown

Black

Stem Color

Green

Yellow

Leaf type

Deciduous

The Toxicity of Spanish broom

Moderate Toxic to Humans

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Scientific Classification of Spanish broom

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Broom

Species

Spanish broom (Spartium junceum)

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Distribution Map of Spanish broom

Spanish broom is widely distributed, native to the Mediterranean region of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. It has been introduced across continents including South America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, where in certain areas, it is sometimes thought to be established outside cultivation. Notably, in parts of South America and South Africa, spanish broom may have an impact on ecosystems by outcompeting local flora. Spanish broom's presence is also marked by its cultivation, appreciated for ornamental purposes. While its global presence spans both hemispheres, spanish broom continues to adapt to various climates and terrains.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Spanish broom

A Comprehensive Guide to Spanish broom How to Grow and Care for Spanish broom