Scotch Broom
Cytisus scoparius
Scotch Broom - Everyone's favorite noxious weed! A woody perennial shrub that has many branches. Plants can range from 3-10 feet tall.
Leaves: Scotch Broom has few leaves. The upper leaves are simple with the lower leaves being 3 parted. Leaves are pointed at each end and can fall early in the year, leaving bare, green stems.
Flowers: Flowers bloom from March through June. Typical pea family flowers in shape. Bright yellow in color with 5 petals.
Habitat: Typically, can be found along roadsides, in pastures, grasslands, and open areas with recent soil disturbance.
Weed Classification: B Select
Why is it a Noxious Weed?
It displaces native and beneficial plants, which can cause losses of grasslands and open forests. It aggressively spreads to form monocultures. Seeds are also toxic to livestock and horses.
Scotch broom is very similar to a few Class A plants (Spanish and French Broom). Neither have been documented in Lewis County, but if you are unsure, please let us know.
Control Recommendations: