Forsythia × intermedia 'Spectabilis'
This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
- Position: Full sun or light shade
- Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: Average
- Flowering period: March to April
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
- Garden care: Prune/trim in late spring immediately after flowering, buds for the following year develop soon after flowering (check for nesting birds prior to cutting) and mulch with a thick layer of organic matter after this. Trim the hedge for form in late July or August.
With its vibrant display of golden-yellow flowers in early spring, 'Spectabilis' lives up to its name as one of the showiest varieties of forsythia. This medium-sized deciduous shrub bears graceful, arching branches densely covered in bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers in March and April, providing a bold pop of colour when most other plants are still dormant. In addition to its ornamental springtime appeal, it also has autumn interest when its green leaves turn a complementary shade of yellow.