Forsythia

Forsythia × intermedia

Forsythia is spring's alarm clock — explosive bursts of golden-yellow flowers on bare branches before anything else is blooming. It's the first real sign of spring in cold climates. Arching branches create a fountain shape that can be left natural or shaped as a hedge. Nothing else delivers this much early spring impact.

Hardiness Zones

4-8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Maintenance

Low

Mature Size

6-10 ft H × 6-10 ft W

Growth Rate

Fast

Bloom Season

Early Spring (before leaves)

Bloom Color

Bright yellow

Care Guide

Plant in full sun. Prune immediately after flowering — buds form on old wood, so fall/winter pruning removes next year's flowers. Don't shear into a box (ruins the natural form). Can be cut to the ground for rejuvenation. Virtually indestructible.