Forsythia viridissima

Greenstem Forsythia is a flowering, perennial, deciduous shrub in the Oleaceae family that is native to Asia. It is widely used for its yellow flowers in early spring which provide needed relief from winter. It will grow to 10 feet tall and wide with arching stems. The flowers are produced on the long, arching, stems before the plants leaf out and the stems and flowers are often cut and brought indoors. 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 means "very green".

Forsythia is easy to grow and does best in loose, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. although siting in full sun will produce more flowers earlier in the Spring. Forsythia is a forgiving plant and tolerates average to poor garden soils, urban conditions, and drought. The shrub is winter hardy, but colder winters and temperatures below -5 degrees F may retard flower development because of the impact of winter temperatures or a late freeze on unopened buds. Forsythia 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. Keep in mind that flowering occurs on wood that is at least a year old. 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. Use in a shrub border, as an accent or foundation plantings.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No known diseases or insect pests. Some species of Forsythia are susceptible to leaf spot or crown gall.

More information on Forsythia.