Forsythia x intermedia 'Spectabilis', 2L
A vigorous variety of this deciduous shrub, Forsythia x intermedia 'Spectabilis' provides an explosion of wonderfully coloured, very early spring flowers. The four-petalled flowers cover the erect stems of the shrub slightly before the leaves unfurl. The colour looks particularly striking alongside the glowing winter stems of Cornus 'Baton Rouge' or Cornus 'Anny's Winter Orange'.
Dimensions
- Pot size: 2L
- Height & Spread: 300cm (9ft 10in) x 200cm (6ft 7in) in 5-10 years
Features
A vigorous variety of this deciduous shrub, Forsythia x intermedia 'Spectabilis' provides an explosion of wonderfully coloured, very early spring flowers. The four-petalled flowers cover the erect stems of the shrub slightly before the leaves unfurl. The colour looks particularly striking alongside the glowing winter stems of Cornus 'Baton Rouge' or Cornus 'Anny's Winter Orange'.
Like so many plants that tolerate snow and the cold, Forsythia is indigenous to Asia and is part of the olive family. Curiously, its erect stems are uniquely used to play a zither-like stringed instrument in Korea called an ajaeng. The Forsythia family takes its name from the 18th-century royal head gardener and founding member of the RHS, William Forsyth.
- Flowers: From March-April when a mass of brilliant flowers will smother the shrub’s erect stems.
- Hardy
- Moist, well drained soil
- Full sun, partial shade
- All aspects
This low maintenance shrub needs little attention but in addition to removing dead, diseased or damaged stems, it is a good idea to thin out overcrowded stems down to the base after flowering. It can be susceptible to birds eating the flower buds.