Gorse (Ulex europaeus)
Common Gorse, Ulex europaeus, is a very spiny, fast growing evergreen shrub that bears masses of intense Broom-like yellow flowers from January to June. Gorse is happiest on dry sandy soils with a southerly aspect and will stand very exposed locations, although it is relatively short lived. Gorse's habit makes it a great refuge for small birds and mammals, and its flowers are a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies. It is also a food plant for several moth and butterfly larvae.
Gorse is sometimes used as a barrier hedge in combination with stone walls, although it is difficult to control and grows rather unevenly. As a hedging plant it is very useful as it establishes itself of thin poor soils. It looks spectacular, particularly in its natural combination with heather.
Suppliers: Perrie Hale Forest Nursery
Your purchase helps us support a range of charities, which are related to the products we sell.
See our planting and size guide for details and tips on planting Gorse plants.
We are currently supplying gorse plants as root trainers.
The Gorse is fab - I planted some a couple of years ago and your plants are far superior
(Pat, Buckinghamshire)