Forsythia - Forsythia suspensa

Forsythia is a fast growing, deciduous shrub that is easy to grow. While this plant is not native to North America, it is widely naturalized to parts of the USA.

Flowering begins in early spring before the leaves begin to emerge. Flowers of this shrub are bright yellow, almost neon, and bloom in clusters of 2-6 flowers. They emerge directly along the length of the old growth stems. Due to its early flowering, it is knowns as the harbinger of spring as it is one of the only plants bringing color to the winter landscape.

Plant Details - Forsythia

Family: Oleaceae

Hardiness Zones: 5–8

Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 6 - 10 ft

Spread: 6 - 10 ft

Growth Rate: Fast

Bloom Time: Early spring

Flower Color: Bright yellow

Wildlife Value: Limited nectar/pollen for early-season pollinators

The Forsythia has an impressive stature, reaching 10 ft in height, as well as up to 12 ft wide. The stems of this shrub grow in an emphatic manner, extending proudly from the center of the plant while gently arching out and away from the center, giving a fountain-like appearance.

Once leaves emerge, the bush becomes vibrant green as it bursts with lanceolate, finely toothed leaves. In the autumn, these leaves will die off green or with a slight hue of burgundy. This shrub can be planted alone to be a focal point, as part of mixed shrub hedge, or in mass.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Forsythia

Full sun to partial shade is the optimal light conditions for this shrub; however, full sun will promote the best flowering. It is a resilient and forgiving shrub, tolerating a wide array of soil conditions, salinity and drought. However, this shrub prefers loose, well-drained soils.

It is virtually pest- and disease-free, however it can sometimes be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. This shrub can develop into a messy mass without regularly pruning. Best practice is the prune directly after flowering. Or you can perform a harsh cut back every 3-4 years by hacking the plant to near ground level.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Early blooms, attracts pollinators, easy to grow.

Plant this showy shrub in front of your kitchen window or along your drive; its lustrous and yellow blooms in late winter will remind you that that spring is one the way. Shop for Forsythia shrubs online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

Yellow

Height at Maturity

Under 10 Feet

Care

Forsythia thrives in well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Trim after blooming to hold its shape and promote new growth. Watch for pests and treat them promptly to keep the plant healthy.

Plant Reproduction

Forsythia spreads through root suckers and stem layering.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Shrubs

Bare root shrubs are a budget-friendly and efficient way to plant during the cooler months when they’re dormant. Before planting, soak the roots in water for 3–6 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a site with the appropriate light exposure for the species—most flowering shrubs prefer full to partial sun. Dig a hole wide enough to spread out the roots and deep enough so the crown (where the roots meet the stems) sits level with the soil surface.

Mound a bit of soil at the bottom of the hole, spread the roots over it, and backfill with native soil while gently firming it to remove air pockets. Water deeply after planting to settle the roots. Keep the soil moist but not soggy during the first growing season to encourage healthy establishment.

Mulch around the base (not touching the stems) to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune lightly to remove any broken branches and to shape after the first flush of growth. With minimal care, bare root shrubs will leaf out beautifully and grow into reliable, long-term landscape anchors.

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