Broom

Name: Broom

Scientific name: Cytisus scoparius

Category: Trees and bushes

Nature Stars: 60

What are nature stars?

About: A large shrub, similar in appearance and habitats to Gorse, but not spiny.

How to identify: Similar to Gorse, but without the spines, and with short, flattened leaves and larger yellow flowers.

Where: Widespread.

Fantastic fact: During the summer, the seed pods of Broom explode with a cracking sound in the sun, spreading their seeds.

Photograph credit: Anita Gould