Cytisus Lena

Cytisus Lena

Why Buy Me?

• Highly scented
• Mass of flowers
• Good for insects

Growing Conditions

Light: Requires full sun to produce the best floral display and maintain a compact form.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, light sandy or loamy soils; thrives in poor, slightly acidic to neutral soils. Avoid waterlogged or clay-heavy soil.

Exposure: Grows well in sheltered or moderately exposed positions; wind-tolerant once established.

Drought Tolerance: High drought tolerance once mature; ideal for dry gardens or poor soils.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time: Best planted in spring or early autumn to allow for root establishment.

Spacing: Space plants 1–1.2 metres (3–4 feet) apart to allow natural spreading and airflow.

Watering: Minimal once established; water regularly during the first growing season or during prolonged drought.

Fertilization: No fertilizing needed—Cytisus performs well in nutrient-poor soils; overfeeding may reduce flowering.

Mulching: Optional; a light gravel or bark mulch helps retain moisture and control weeds in the first year.

Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to shape and encourage bushy growth. Avoid cutting into old wood, which may not regenerate.

Propagation: Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by seed in autumn.

Seasonal Interest

Spring: Produces a profuse display of deep ruby-red and gold pea-like flowers, covering slender green stems; long flowering period.

Summer: Flowers fade; fine green foliage and wiry stems provide soft texture in mixed borders.

Autumn: Foliage remains neat; plant retains shape and structural interest without strong autumn colour.

Winter: Semi-evergreen; green stems persist in mild winters, offering subtle winter structure.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife: A rich nectar source for bees and other pollinators during peak spring flowering.

Garden Use: Ideal for rock gardens, gravel gardens, sunny borders, slopes, and coastal or wildlife-friendly gardens. Low-maintenance and well-suited for Mediterranean-style plantings.

Companion Plants: Pairs well with lavender, cistus, santolina, thyme, and ornamental grasses for a drought-tolerant or naturalistic effect.

Transform your home and garden with Cytisus Lena —a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.