Ornamental broom plant1/18/2024 ![]() The plant grows quickly, crowding out wildflower species and reducing open habitat favoured by native birds and butterflies. Broom can be found on the lower Mainland, on the Sunshine Coast to Powell River, and through the Fraser Valley and Chilliwack Valley to Hope. It has been reported on the Gulf Islands as far north as Cortes, Hernando, Savary and Texada Islands. Since being introduced to BC., broom has spread from the Sooke area up the east side of Vancouver Island. Mature plants can produce upwards of 3,500 seed pods, which each produce 15-20 seeds that can remain viable for up to 30 years. ![]() Once introduced, this invasive species grows in dense patches, further choking out native species. Today, it is found throughout much of the southern BC mainland, Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. It is also noxious to humans and animals if ingested. The plant's photosynthetic stems allow it to grow year-round, thereby out-competing other native species, including Douglas-fir and Garry oak. Broom has a deep root and a waxy covering on its branches and small leaves. The flowers appear in early spring and develop into pods by summer. How is it identified?īroom is a dark green deciduous shrub up to three metres tall, with small leaves and yellow or occasionally white flowers, having with a purple or brownish tinge. ![]() Scotch broom was also used for many years as a means of preventing soil erosion along roadsides. Once the packing material was discarded, this allowed the spread of the plant even further. Introduced as an ornamental plant in the mid-19th century, it is now the poster child of invasive species in British Columbia.Īccording to the BC Invasive Species Council, it would seem Scotch broom was also used to pack whiskey cases for gold camps along the west coast. Scotch broom is a perennial shrub originally from Europe. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply.AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |