Black Broom

Cytisus nigricans, Fabaceae

Zones

4–8

Layer

Shrub

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Moderate

Guild Roles

Nitrogen FixerPollinator AttractorWindbreakBeneficial Insect Habitat

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)Partial Shade (tolerated)

Water

Low (established)Moderate (seedling)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Spanish GorseGenista hispanica

Nitrogen FixationPollinator Sharing

SilverweedPotentilla anserina

Nitrogen FixationBeneficial Insect Habitat

Wild Service TreeSorbus torminalis

Nitrogen Fixation

Blue Oat GrassHelictotrichon sempervirens

Nitrogen FixationWind Protection

Antagonistic Plants

Wild LicoriceAstragalus glycyphyllos

Both legumes compete for rhizobial partners and similar soil nutrients

Uses

Functions

Soil ImprovementErosion ControlBee ForageWildlife Habitat

Edible Parts

Flower Buds

Medicinal Uses

DiureticAnti-Inflammatory

Common Questions

What zones does Black Broom grow in?

Black Broom grows in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8.

Is Black Broom a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, Black Broom is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for Black Broom?

Good companions for Black Broom include Spanish Gorse, Silverweed, Wild Service Tree, Blue Oat Grass.

Design guilds with Black Broom and see companion relationships visually.

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