Cytisus lena is a plant that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the pea family and is also known as the Italian broom. The plant grows to a height of 6-10 feet and has yellow flowers that bloom in the spring. The plant is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a cover crop.
Related plant:
Cytisus Racemosus
Related plant:
Cytisus Battandieri
About soil condition, cytisus lena prefers well-drained, sandy soil with full sun. It is not particular about soil pH, but it does best in neutral to slightly alkaline soils. It is somewhat tolerant of clay soil. This plant does not like wet soils.
Just like other plants, the sun is essential for the growth of Cytisus lena. It needs at least six hours of sunlight each day to maintain its healthy growth. The plant also benefits from being in an airy location where it can get plenty of fresh air circulation.
The temperature condition of cytisus lena is that it prefers warm climates. It grows best in temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate some cold, but not freezing temperatures. In its native range, it is found in countries with Mediterranean climates, such as Spain, Portugal, and Italy.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. If the humidity drops below or rises above this level it can have negative effects on the plant. If the humidity is too low, the leaves of the plant will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the plant will start to develop fungus.
About fertilizer, this family of plant is not too demanding. A little compost added to the planting hole is usually sufficient. They like well-drained soils, so if your soil is heavy, add some grit to the planting hole. They are quite drought tolerant, once established, but appreciate a little water during extended periods of dry weather. About the roots, this family of plant has a fibrous root system. The roots are not very deep, so they don't need a lot of space to spread out. They are also quite tolerant of drought, so they don't need to be constantly moist.
Pruning is an important aspect of caring for a Cytisus Lena plant. This shrub is known for its abundant, fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring. Pruning helps to keep the plant healthy and promotes new growth. It is best to prune in the early spring, before new growth begins.
Propagation of the Lena creeper is best done by softwood cuttings taken in spring or early summer. The cutting should be around 10-15cm in length and taken from new growth that has not yet hardened off. Place the cutting in a pot filled with a well-drained mix of sand and peat and water well. Keep the cutting moist but not waterlogged and in a warm location out of direct sunlight. After a few weeks, the cutting should have rooted and can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Usually, the plant growth rate occurs during the spring and summer months. However, the plant can grow and produce flowers year-round if provided with the correct conditions. Cytisus lena prefers full sun and well-drained soil. However, it is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can even grow in poor, rocky soil. Once established, the plant is quite drought tolerant.
Common problems for this kind of plant plants are aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Other problems include powdery mildew, which can be controlled with sulfur or neem oil.
Source:
Cytisus | Landscape Plants | Oregon State University
Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) - Extension's Sustainable
invasive spp - one - Columbia University
