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Cornell University


Forsythia
Forsythia sp.
(for-sith-ee-ah)



Click on thumbnails for larger image.

What about it?

The forsythia is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 8 feet tall. In most species, the branches are slightly arched and decorated with leaves and flower buds in an opposite arrangement. In mid-April the buds explode with bright yellow blossoms. In the fall the leaves mellow to a reddish-purple color. Forsythia has bee heavily planted in many towns and cities of New York.

What is it used for?

The forsythia can be used as a specimen or as a border shrub.

Where does it grow? How do we grow it?

The forsythia prefers moist, fertile, and well-drained soil. Plant shrubs 10 feet apart.

What are its primary problems?

Forsythia may suffer from winter injury to flower buds at -15 to -20 degrees F.

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