GardenWizzPlant Care Card

Gorse

Ulex europaeus · Shrub

Hardiness
H6 Hardy — very cold winter (to −15 to −20°C)
Position
Full sun
Height × Spread
2.5–4.5 m × 2.5 m
Soil
Poor sandy soil; well drained; light; acidic to neutral pH. Becomes leggy in rich soils.
Flowering
January–June
Toxicity
No specific toxicity is listed by the RHS. This is not a guarantee of safety — check with a vet or the ASPCA before pets or children eat any plant.

The Gardening Year

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
🪴 Plant out
🌸 In flower
✂️ Prune

Watch out for

Honey fungus: Improve drainage and avoid planting in soil known to be infected; remove severely affected plants.

Vine weevil: Check roots when purchasing new plants and apply biological nematodes to the soil in autumn.

Slugs and snails: Use physical barriers like copper tape or apply iron phosphate-based pellets around the base.

Root rot: Ensure planting in well-drained, sandy or acidic soil and avoid overwatering.

Nutrient deficiency: Avoid adding rich fertilizers which cause leggy growth; rely on natural soil nutrients in poor soils.

Full guide: gardenwizz.com/plants/gorse © GardenWizz — UK gardening encyclopedia