Crown Coronilla (Coronilla coronata)

Crown Coronilla

Coronilla coronata

Clusters of pea-like blooms glow like tiny golden crowns. Perennial flowering shrub; common name: Crown Coronilla.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in exposed, dry locations and produces more blooms in full sun
💧
Watering Allow soil to fully dry between waterings; drought-tolerant once established, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to -10°C; prefers cool to temperate climates, may struggle in extreme summer heat above 32°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Pinnately compound, small oval leaflets in opposite pairs, bright green, evergreen in mild climates
  • Flower: Dense umbels of fragrant, pea-like yellow blooms forming crown-shaped clusters
  • Stem: Slender, trailing or upright stems with fine, soft hairs
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; reduce watering during extended dry spells to avoid stress

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to prioritize flowering over foliage growth

Crushed eggshell topdressing:Sprinkle baked, crushed eggshells around the base to improve soil drainage and add calcium; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage prolonged late-season blooming
  • Trim back leggy or frost-damaged stems in early spring to maintain a compact, mat-forming habit
  • Remove yellowing or diseased foliage promptly to improve air circulation
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and potential liver damage with prolonged exposure

Humans: Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids; ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover, rock garden plant, and pollinator-friendly nectar source for bees