Flower Properties

Property	Value
English Name	Scotch Broom
MainColor	Yellow
PlantType	Tree
Growth Type	Native
Season	June
ImageUrl	Cytisus-001
Photographer	DP
Location
Human Toxicity	Highly_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

tall, deciduous shrub with slender green stems and bright yellow pea-like flowers in spring and early summer. Native to western and central Europe, including the UK, where it is a familiar sight on heathlands, open woodland, and road verges. While not of conservation concern, in some parts of the world (e.g., North America, New Zealand) it is considered highly invasive, crowding out native plants.

Distribution

Native to Europe; widespread in the UK, especially in sandy and acidic soils.

Medicinal/Other Uses

Traditionally used as a diuretic, anti-arrhythmic, and for lowering blood pressure. It was also used historically in folk medicine for heart problems.

Edibility

Not edible — contains toxic alkaloids.

Human Toxicity

All parts of the plant, especially the seeds, contain quinolizidine alkaloids, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and heart rhythm disturbances.

Pet Toxicity

Toxic to cats, dogs, and livestock.

Active Compounds

Sparteine (a cardiac-affecting alkaloid), cytisine, tannins, and flavonoids.