Gorse (Ulex europaeus)

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

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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)