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Border forsythia Spectabilis
Forsythia intermedia Spectabilis
Description
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.
Features
- Common name : Forsythia Spectabilis
- Family : Oleaceae
- Category : shrub
- Spread : 2 m
- Foliage : deciduous
- Color of flowers : yellow
- Use : isolated - shrubbery - flowering hedge
- Soil : all - well drained - fresh - not very fertile
- Habit : bushy
- Earth to use : universal potting soil/garden soil/compost
- Enemies : nothing to report
- Possible diseases : root rot - gall
Expédition & livraison
How does the delivery work?
As soon as you place your order your plants are selected
Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.
Our delivery methods
Shipping of our plants throughout Europe (except overseas and islands).
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