Hairy greenweed (Genista pilosa)

Hairy greenweed

Also known as: Silkyleaf woadwaxen

Hairy greenweed is a creeping plant that thrives in hot, sunny areas and is drought tolerant. This deciduous shrub can fix nitrogen and provides shelter for invertebrates, insects, and arthropods. Its Latin name (Genista pilosa) comes from Genista meaning "broom," while pilosa translates to "long, soft hairs," referring to the silvery hairs that adorn the underside of its shiny green leaves.

Scientific classification

Species

Hairy greenweed (Genista pilosa)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Yellow

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Hairy greenweed

Quickly Identify Hairy greenweed

Vibrant yellow pea-like flowers in racemes 2-6 inches long (5-15 cm).

Distinctive legume fruit, flat, brown, 2-3 inches long (5-7.5 cm), with seeds inside.

Small oval leaves, 0.5 inches long (1.3 cm), with silvery hairs on undersides.

Green stem with soft hairs, 0.1-0.2 inches in diameter (2.5-5 mm), branching densely.

Low-growing deciduous shrub, 1.5 feet tall (45 cm), spreading 3 feet wide (90 cm).

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Care Guide for Hairy greenweed

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Hairy greenweed flourishes in conditions similar to its native habitat, preferring drier soils and tolerating drought with watering every two weeks. It is often cultivated outdoors, demonstrating resilience to moisture variation and thriving in temperate climates with well-draining soil.

Pruning: Hairy greenweed features hairy stems and yellow flowers, flourishing with proper pruning. Prune in early spring to maintain shape, remove dead branches for airflow, and enhance flowering. Consistent pruning supports its compact form, making it suitable for garden beds and borders.

Propagation: Hairy greenweed propagates well through cuttings using healthy semi-hardwood stems, cut to 10-15 cm with leaves. Dip the end in rooting hormone, plant in well-draining mix, and keep moist. A warm, indirect light environment fosters root growth, indicated by new growth.

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