forsythia

An arching, evergreen deciduous shrub that is commonly seen around the Chicagoland area. Few plants herald the onset of the coming summer like the proliferous early blooming yellow Forsythia blooms. In most gardens they are pruned as a hedge which negates their long arching stems. They are not fussy and grow fast.

Belonging to the Oleaceae family, this hardy and fast-growing plant typically reaches a mature height of 6 to 10 feet, with a similar spread. The shrub features opposite, simple leaves and arching branches that become covered in bright yellow, bell-shaped flowers before the emergence of its leaves. This plant is known for its adaptability to a variety of soil types and its preference for full sun to partial shade, making it a popular choice in landscapes for its early-season burst of color.

Pruning is often recommended after the flowering period to maintain the shrub’s shape and encourage vigorous growth for the following season. Forsythia is valued for its low-maintenance nature, resilience, and ability to thrive in different soil conditions, making it a versatile and dependable addition to gardens, providing a burst of color as winter transitions to spring.

Height: 4′ – 10′

Width: 4′ – 6′

Watering and soil: Moist, well drained. Dry tolerant.

Exposure: Full sun to part shade.

Varieties: New Hampshire Gold, Show Off

See: Shrubs and Roses

Category: Sun Perennials – Sun Plants – Sunny Plants – Shrubs – Deciduous Shrubs – Forsythia near me