There are many plants that we see growing in the streets, and that later we also find them in the nurseries. One of them is the Genista, which has very vivid and striking yellow flowers, and can grow in practically all types of soils, even stony ones.
It is specially adapted to living in areas where rainfall is rather scarce, so if you live in the Mediterranean, or if drought is a problem in your area, with Genista you can decorate your garden without having to worry about anything.
Main characteristics of the Genista
This plant is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. It is a perennial or semi-perennial shrub that can measure from 50cm in height to 3m. Its branches are thin, with or without thorns, from which small and simple leaves sprout. The flowers are yellow, aromatic and shaped like a butterfly; appear in spring or summer. The fruit is a long legume, containing several seeds.
The genus includes several species, such as the following: G. canariensis (originally from the Canary Islands, with a height of 1,5m), g. flordia (called broom or white broom, it measures up to 3m high), or the G. hispanica (measures half a meter, with thorns).
Main care
Now that we know what its characteristics are, let's now see how this plant is cared for. Beforehand, you should know that it is suitable for beginners. In fact, the only important thing to keep in mind is that does not support intense frostsTherefore, if the winter temperatures in your area are below -4ºC, it is highly recommended to have it in a pot so that it can be brought into the house before that season begins.
For the rest, it must be planted in spring in a place where it receives direct sunlight, and water very little, once or twice a week. It is not necessary to fertilize, although of course you can do it in spring and summer with organic fertilizers, such as guano or horse manure.
What did you think of the Genista?