Forsythia, The Herold of Spring.

The beautiful Forsythia is among the first plants we see bloom. This early spring superstar ushers in spring with its vivid golden yellow flowers and is one of the most recognized shrubs in the Mid-Atlantic states. This gem grows 8 to 10 feet tall and 10 to 12 feet wide. It has an erect habit, with most canes growing upright or at slight angles. As they mature, this fast-growing plant will show weeping tips of the canes weep, creating a wild, unkempt look. The form varies depending on the variety.

Forsythia flowers will last for two or three weeks unless killed by cold (in Maryland, anything is possible). The yellow flower color varies with varieties, ranging from pale to deep yellow. The flowers are 1? to 1? inches long and wide, bell-like, and produced in clusters. They bloom on last year’s wood. Dark green leaves emerge shortly after bloom. In the fall, they may turn slightly yellow, maroon, or purple, depending upon the cultivar and the amount of sunlight received.

Native to Asia, the Forsythia adjusted well to the North American climate and is now standard across gardens in our nation. It is a favorite plant in the middle-Atlantic, midwest, and southeast.

This species is extremely easy to care for and does not need continuous attention or fertilizing; once or twice per year suits it fine. If you are an organic gardener, this species will welcome a nice handful of peat moss or leaf litter once in a while. Once fully grown, the forsythia is drought-resistant, disease-resistant, and heat-tolerant.

Want one of these beauties on your property? Call SBCoutdoor Service!