Purple Broom

Cytisus purpureus is known as purple broom, and the RHS gives *Chamaecytisus purpureus* as a synonym. It is a low deciduous shrub native to the Alps and southeastern Europe, with purple flowers in May; [Trees and Shrubs Online](https://www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/chamaecytisus/chamaecytisus-purpureus/) reproduces Bean’s botanical account, and the [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5250/cytisus-purpureus/details) confirms the accepted name and common name. ## Garden use The species’ compact stature makes it useful near the front of a mixed shrub planting or as low cover beneath taller, more open shrubs. A nursery profile reports a height around 45 cm and a wider spread, while the botanical account describes it as a dwarf shrub; use the local plant’s growth to set spacing rather than forcing a clipped outline. Its pea-shaped flowers are a distinctive spring feature. ## Maintenance After flowering, cut out the spent flowering shoots while retaining younger growth that will carry the next season’s flowers. The species is in Fabaceae and can be harmful if eaten; wear gloves during handling, as the RHS advises.