Sunrise Forsythia

Sunrise is a compact, semi-spreading forsythia with bright yellow flowers that cover the branches in early spring before the leaves emerge. It matures about 4–6 feet tall and wide, a useful scale for a small hedge or shrub border. [Missouri Botanical Garden](https://plantfinder.mobot.org/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?gen=Forsythia&isprofile=0&taxonid=245770) lists Forsythia × intermedia ‘Sunrise’ for zones 5–8, while [Iowa State University Extension](https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/growing-forsythias-home-landscape) describes its early spring bloom and compact, five-foot form. ## Landscape use Use Sunrise as a specimen, in a loose group, or in an informal hedge where its spring flower display is visible. Its foliage provides a green shrub backdrop after the flowers fade. ## Growing conditions Plant in full sun for the best flower display; part shade is tolerated. Loose, well-drained soil is suitable, and the shrub can tolerate clay and relatively poor soil. Water new plantings while they establish and during extended dry periods. ## Maintenance Forsythia flowers on the previous season’s growth. Prune immediately after flowering, removing a few of the oldest stems at the base when the shrub needs renewal.