Dyer's greenweed - Genista tinctoria (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Dyer's greenweed

Also known as: Dyer's broom, Woodwaxen

As both its common and scientific names suggest (tinctoria means used as a dye), the dyer's greenweed has been used as a natural yellow dye since ancient times. It's a popular garden plant, with numerous cultivars available on market. The most famous cultivar is 'Royal Gold', which gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Scientific classification

Species

Dyer's greenweed (Genista tinctoria)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

61 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Dyer's greenweed

Distribution of Dyer's greenweed

Distribution Map

Dyer's greenweed, predominantly native to Europe and the western parts of Asia, has expanded its range due to human activity. Broadening from its original habitat, dyer's greenweed is now also cultivated in various suitable climates globally and has been introduced in major regions of South America and the Middle East.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Meadows, pastures, heaths and the edges of fields.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Dyer's greenweed

Vibrant yellow, pea-like flowers in erect clusters distinguish dyer's greenweed.

Sessile, elliptic-oblong leaves covered in fine hairs aid dyer's greenweed identification.

Slender, firm legume pods measuring 2 inches (5 cm) indicate dyer's greenweed fruit.

Vertical, slender stem with sparse hairs and minimal branching defines dyer's greenweed.

Bushy shrub with spreading form and multiple stems characterize dyer's greenweed appearance.

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Care Guide for Dyer's greenweed

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Dyer's greenweed prefers well-drained soils and moderate moisture, thriving in sunny to partially shaded areas. Water every three weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly in between. While it benefits from natural rainfall, supplemental watering may be needed in prolonged dry spells, especially in temperate climates.

Fertilize: For dyer's greenweed, fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, but adjust amounts to avoid over-fertilization. Cease feeding in winter. Liquid fertilizers ensure quick absorption, while granular options offer slow-release. Water soil before application to prevent root burn, enhancing health and blooms.

Pruning: The deciduous shrub dyer's greenweed produces vibrant yellow flowers and benefits from annual pruning in early spring. This involves removing weak stems for healthy growth, thinning dense areas for better air circulation, and using clean tools to ensure plant health and enhance flowering.

Propagation: Dyer's greenweed is a perennial shrub that thrives in well-drained soils and sunny areas. For propagation, seeds should be collected when ripe and sown immediately in a light substrate to ensure moisture and air balance, promoting vigorous growth of seedlings.

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