Fine broom (Spartocytisus filipes)
Spartocytisus filipes Webb & Berthel. · Family: Fabaceae
Lives on steep ravine walls in the low and middle mountains, 200–500 m.
Photos
Description
A Canary Islands endemic found on Tenerife and the western islands. It differs from the other species of the genus on the islands in its thin, flexible branches and short-stalked leaves with oblanceolate leaflets. The flower stalks are longer than the calyx. A small, much-branched shrub with very fragrant white flowers in racemes.
Propagation and growing
Propagation from seed. No data on the germination of this species were found in the literature consulted. Germination of this species should not be very difficult. Light scarification with sandpaper is recommended to help germination. Germinate in standard substrate with added humus-rich soil. Sowing in seed trays is recommended in autumn. A broom-like plant with spectacular spring flowering.
Garden use
No information on the use of this species was found in the literature consulted. Maintenance is minimal, with a few supplementary waterings after planting. Suitable for low and middle zones in the north of the island. Also in the south, provided there is supplementary watering. It is dormant in summer, so it should not be watered during that season.
Protection status
Annex II of the Order of 20 February 1991 on the protection of wild flora of the Canary Islands.
Potential vegetation
Matorales de las zonas bajas y medias normalmente en el dominio del bosque termófilo.
Source: Cabildo de Tenerife, “Guía de especies vegetales”, CC BY. Translated from Spanish by us.
Districts
Daute · Teno