Easter tree (Forsythia)

Forsythia (Easter tree) is a deciduous, very floriferous shrub at a height of 1 to 3 meters and up to 5 meters in width. Its main attraction is the flowers that bloom in early spring, “painting” the branches in yellow when they are still with no leaves. The branches are erect and the stems grow from a base. The leaves are opposite and with serrated edges.

Plant profile

Forsythia is a very vigorous shrub, of moderate to rapid growth, and it takes great prominence in any garden at the time of its flowering. The set of flowers and branches gives the plant an aspect of golden massif. In autumn, the leaves of the Forsythia become yellow or orange before falling. It is a shrub that changes every season, and in it we can observe the ever-changing cycle of life.

It can be used alone as a main plant in small gardens or patios, but in my opinion it has the greatest impact when planted in groups or hedges along extensive gardens. There are many cultivars for various applications, among them we can highlight: ‘Arnold Dwarf’, dwarf variety, ‘Spectabilis’, rustic and floriferous, ‘Fiesta’, variegated cream leaves and ‘Spring Glory’, adapted to warmer climates.

How to plant

Forsythe should be cultivated under full or half shade, in fertile soil, well drained and enriched with organic matter and watered periodically. This plant enjoy the cold of winter. The prunings must be done after the flowering so that the plant can grow in a compact form stimulating also a more abundant flowering.

Propagation

Forsythia is propagated by cuttings of hardwood and semi-hardwood branches, and also by air layering in spring and summer.