Height at maturity
2 - 2,50 m
Exposure
Sun, partial shade
Flowering period
March - April
Forsythia × intermedia - Border forsythia ‘Spectabilis’
(deciduous ornamental shrub with spectacular spring flowering)
Origin and character istics
'Spectabilis' is a cultivar from the hybrid Forsythia suspensa × Forsythia viridissima, selected for its abundant flowering, dense habit, and excellent hardiness.
Belonging to the Olive family (Oleaceae), it is a staple choice for informal hedges, ornamental borders, and cottage-style gardens.
Description and features
- Mature height: 2 to 3 metres
- Spread: 2 to 2.5 metres
- Habit: Upright, flexible with slightly arching branches
- Foliage: Deciduous, medium to dark green, sometimes with attractive autumn colours
- Flowering: Very abundant, from March to April
- Flowers: Deep golden-yellow, star-shaped bells, borne directly on bare stems
- Hardiness: Excellent (down to -20/-25 °C)
Position and soil
- Position: Full sun (best for maximum flowering) or light partial shade
- Soil: All fertile, fresh but well-drained soils
- Tolerances: Withstands pollution, calcareous soils, and urban conditions
Planting
- Best time: Autumn (preferably) or spring
- Spacing: 1.5 to 2 metres apart for an airy hedge
- Preparation: Add compost when planting to encourage establishment
Watering
- After planting: Water regularly during the first year
- Later: Very tolerant of moderate drought; water only during prolonged heatwaves
Pruning
- When?: Immediately after flowering (April-May)
- How?:
- Remove 1/3 of the oldest stems at the base each year to rejuvenate
- Shorten young shoots by one third to maintain shape and abundant blooms
- Tip: Avoid pruning in late summer or autumn, as this removes next year’s flower buds.
Propagation
- By cuttings: Semi-ripe cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in winter
- By layering: Easy, by bending a low branch to the ground
Garden uses
The Border forsythia 'Spectabilis' is perfect for:
- Informal flowering hedges (alone or combined with Spiraea, Deutzia, Weigela)
- Shrub borders in the foreground for its spring brilliance
- Specimen planting as a bright focal point
- Large containers for terrace or balcony
Pest and disease resistance
- Very robust: Resistant to most pests and diseases under normal conditions
- Watch for: Aphids in spring; treat naturally if necessary
Growing tips
- Plant in full sun for the most spectacular display
- Prune regularly to prevent overcrowding and stimulate new growth
- Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils
- Feed lightly in early spring with compost or organic fertiliser
Forsythia × intermedia 'Spectabilis' is a radiant shrub that awakens the garden at the end of winter. Its easy care, vigour, and dazzling flowers make it a reliable choice for any garden style: cottage, urban, or natural.
Caractéristiques
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Common name :
Forsythia Spectabilis
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Family :
Oleaceae
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Category :
shrub
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Spread :
2 m
-
Foliage :
deciduous
-
Color of flowers :
yellow
-
Use :
isolated - shrubbery - flowering hedge
-
Soil :
all - well drained - fresh - not very fertile
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Habit :
bushy
-
Earth to use :
universal potting soil/garden soil/compost
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Enemies :
nothing to report
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Possible diseases :
root rot - gall