Spanish Broom

Spartium junceum

Description

A perennial evergreen shrub that grows six to ten-feet tall. It is similar to Scotch broom, except the stems are thicker and rougher, has fewer leaves, and the flowers are larger and fewer in number. Other distinguishing features include the rounded stems, the simple one-parted leaves, and the pungent fragrance of the flowers.

Habitat

Areas in full sunlight and limited water, areas with poor, rocky soil, disturbed areas, roadsides, trails, state parks, vacant lots

Distribution

Western Oregon, Western Washington

Impacts

Displaces native species, creates a fire hazard, poisonous if eaten

Dispersal Methods

Seed ejection, ants, and water

Prevention

Look for flowering or pre-flowering plants from the middle of May to late June. Isolated populations can be dug up and must be monitored for several years. After the control is complete, re-vegetate the site with native or desirable plants to compete with and prevent broom establishments. Clean vehicles, shoes, and animals after they have been in an infested area.

Listings

ODA's B List

Factsheets

Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board Fact Sheet
King County Noxious Weed Control Program Fact Sheet

Photos

http://calphotos.berkeley.edu/cgi/img_query?query_src=photos_index&where-taxon=Spartium+junceum

Distribution Map

Distribution in Oregon
Distribution in Washington

Identification Help

Distinguishing Between Broom Species

CWMA Warnings

Mid-Willamette