Korean Forsythia Forsythia ovata

Early Forsythia, or Forsythia ovata, is one of 11 species of Forsythia, a flowering, deciduous, perennial shrub. Early Forsythia is native to Korea, compact and bushy, and produces beautiful yellow flowers in early spring. The flowers are produced on arching stems before the plant leafs out. It will flower best when planted in full sun, but will do well when situated in part shade. This variety of forsythia is winter hardy in its growing zones, producing blooms from buds that survive winter temperatures as low as -25 degrees F., and is one of the first forsythias to bloom each year. That, plus its winter hardiness, separates Early Forsythia from other species. Once it has bloomed, it blends into the background with its nondescript leaves. However, its compact, bushy form, and spreading branches make it a great choice for mass plantings, borders or hedge. The genus is named for William Forsyth (1737-1804), who was the Scottish superintendent of the Royal Gardens of Kensington Palace and author of A Treatise on the Culture and Management of Fruit Trees which in its day was probably the most widely read work on the subject. The species name refers to its ovate leaves.

Early Forsythia is an easy keeper, thriving in loose, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun, but adapting to a variety of soil pH and textures, urban conditions, and drought. The shrub is winter hardy and can tend to grow wildly, but it can be pruned to keep the shrub's growth under control. Pruning should be done immediately after spring flowering; if done after mid-July, you will likely remove flower buds for the following spring because flowers appear on old growth. To rejuvenate an older plant, you can cut it back almost ground level. The plant can be propagated by rooting stem cuttings and some cultivars may sucker.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  

Leaf spot, crown gall, and dieback are some issues that affect this plant. Spider mites and aphids are insects that may be attracted.

More information on Forsythia.