A native of Sicily and Sardinnia where it grows on arid hillsides, this shrub or small graceful tree is a great plant for a place where you want height but not bulk, and minimum shade. Mt. Atna broom can reach 12-15 feet, casts little or no shade, and makes a superb “see-through” tree. Its sparse leaves are greatly reduced and gas exchange is carried on by structures in the slender, weeping stems that look like leaves. The tree is hardly noticeable until it breaks out in bloom when it is covered by bright yellow pea flowers that are sweetly perfumed. Unlike Scotch broom, Mt. Etna broom rarely reseeds and is not invasive. It grows quickly, is very drought tolerant once established, but will not tolerate hard pruning.
Type: Deciuous tree or shrub
Outstanding Feature: See-through habit
Form: Narrow, weeping
Growth Rate: Rapid
Bloom: Small bright yellow pea flowers in summer
Size: 12-15’ H x 6-8’ W
Light: Full sun
Soil: Poor, very well drained
Hardiness: Zones 8-10
Care: Does not tolerate hard pruning
Pests and Diseases: Aphids
Propagation: Seed; semi hardwood cuttings.
