Spanish broom (Genista hispanica, Sp. Pl.: 711 (1753))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 711 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Genista

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: S. France to N. Spain

Description

Spanish broom, known scientifically as Genista hispanica, is a fascinating plant that has captured the interest of botanists and garden enthusiasts alike. Originally documented in 1753 by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in his seminal work “Species Plantarum,” Spanish broom has since been recognized as an integral member of the Fabaceae family.

This plant is native to the Mediterranean regions of Southwestern Europe, specifically flourishing across Southern France and Northern Spain. The hot, dry climates of these areas provide the ideal growing conditions for Spanish broom, which thrives in well-drained soils and full sunlight.

Spanish broom is distinguished by its bright yellow flowers and slender green stems, which contribute to its broom-like appearance. The shrub typically blossoms during the late spring and early summer months, creating a striking visual display that adds vibrant color to the natural landscape. These blooms not only enhance its ornamental value but also attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, playing a crucial role in the local ecosystem.

The hardy nature of Spanish broom allows it to adapt to a range of environmental conditions, though it is particularly well-suited to dry, rocky terrains. This adaptability has also made it a popular choice for gardeners looking to cultivate low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants. However, due to its robust growth, it is important to manage the spread of Spanish broom carefully, as it can become invasive in some regions outside its native habitat.

Moreover, Spanish broom has a history of utilitarian use among local populations, particularly in its native range. The plant’s long, sturdy stems were traditionally harvested and used to make brooms and brushes, which is reflected in its common name.

In summary, Spanish broom (Genista hispanica) is a resilient and visually captivating member of the Fabaceae family. Its presence from Southern France to Northern Spain underscores its adaptability and horticultural appeal, ensuring that it remains a cherished plant for both natural landscapes and garden settings.

Common Names

Eng: spanish gorse, spanish broom
Cym: eithin sbaen, eithinen sbaen
En: Spanish broom, Spanish gorse
Az: İspan nazı
Eu: Otabera arrunt
Ca: Argelagó, Cascaula
Cs: Kručinka španělská
Nl: Heidebrem
Fr: Genêt d’Espagne, Petit Genêt d’Espagne
De: Spanischer Ginster
It: Ginestra
Es: Abulaga, Hierba de la matriquera, Taulaga, Ulagino
Cy: Eithinen Sbaen, Eithin Sbaen

Synonyms

• Ulex hispanicus ((L.) Anon.)
• Lissera hispanica ((L.) Fourr.)
• Spartium hispanicum ((L.) Spreng.)
• Voglera hispanica ((L.) Fourr.)
• Telinaria hispanica ((L.) C.Presl)

Distribution

• France (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Mar 8, 2020 by martinez jenni (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 29, 2022 by unorlas (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 12, 2021 by Renaud Brochiero (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2020 by Sarmiento Marcos (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 26, 2019 by cefalo16 (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 18, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2019 by Renaud Brochiero (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Paul FABRE (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 12, 2021 by Renaud Brochiero (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 3, 2020 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Apr 2, 2021 by Guy MOLL (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 12, 2021 by Renaud Brochiero (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2021 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 14, 2022 by Alberto Gonzalo (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 4, 2019 by Pierre Mégevand (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken May 27, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 27, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Bertrand BUI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 21, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Jean-Jacques HOUDRÉ (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2021 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Apr 24, 2020 by romain riedweg (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 22, 2007 by Tela Botanica − Mathieu MENAND (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 29, 2022 by Perrine M (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 3, 2017 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 3, 2020 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jun 15, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Sylvain PIRY (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 26, 2020 by Fanny G (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 18, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 18, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 3, 2018 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5347761)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:496084-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Genista hispanica L.)

Specifications

Growth