PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes abundant flowering; tolerates coastal wind exposure
Watering
Allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to light frosts; avoid prolonged extreme heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, pinnate dark green leaflets arranged along slender, drooping stems
- Flower: Bright yellow, pea-like tubular blooms clustered at branch tips
- Stem: Slender, flexible weeping branches forming a dense, rounded canopy
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at growth onset. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowering rather than foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and gently work into top layer to avoid root disturbancePruning
- Prune immediately after flowering to maintain compact shape and encourage new growth
- Remove dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches to improve airflow and light penetration
- Trim back leggy stems in early spring to promote a dense, rounded canopy
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and potential tremors in severe cases
Humans: Contains cytisine; ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness in large doses
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Associated with New Zealand's native coastal ecosystems; valued for ornamental landscaping
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; suitable for rock gardens, container planting, and coastal hedges
