Description
Forsythias are a genus of deciduous flowering shrubs that belong to the olive family. These low-maintenance, fast-growing shrubs feature an upright, arching form and are known for their long branches that fill with brilliant yellow blooms early in the spring. The flowers precede their leaves, which means you get a good look at the blooms with no foliage to block your view. Bees and butterflies love forsythia, and they provide a cheerful backdrop, border, or centerpiece for any yard. Forsythias are fast-growing shrubs that can add as many as 24 inches in a year, especially the larger varieties.
Forsythia bushes are often used as a living privacy wall in the summer and fall after they have fully leafed out. In addition, they can be used for erosion control on slopes and in foundation plantings.
The bushes grow best in moderately moist soil, but they can handle some drought once they’re established. Water new forsythia plants regularly (at least 2 inches of water a week) until they’re established, then only water if you have an extended period with no rainfall.
| Common Name |
Forsythia, golden bells |
| Botanical Name |
Forsythia spp. |
| Family |
Oleaceae |
| Plant Type |
Deciduous shrub |
| Mature Size |
2–10 ft. tall, 2–10 ft. wide |
| Sun Exposure |
Full sun, partial shade |
| Soil Type |
Moist but well-draining |
| Soil pH |
Neutral to acidic |
| Bloom Time |
Spring |
| Flower Color |
Yellow |
| Hardiness Zones |
5 to 8, USA |
| Native Area |
Asia |
