Rush Broom

(Acmispon junceus)

Rush Broom (Acmispon junceus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Acmispon junceus, commonly known as Rush Broom or Rush Deervetch, is a perennial herb that is native to California’s coastal regions, including the northern and central coast and the coastal mountain ranges. It typically forms a hairy, prostrate or spreading mat and can reach heights of 1-2 feet. The plant features small, oval leaflets and in the spring to early summer, it produces clusters of bright yellow, pea-like flowers, each up to about 0.4 inches long, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Rush Broom is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for erosion control on slopes and in restoration projects. It is also used in native plant gardens and as a ground cover in xeriscaping due to its low water requirements. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soils, although it can tolerate a range of soil types, including serpentine. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. This species is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems. It is also not typically invasive when grown outside its native range, but as with all native plantings, care should be taken to ensure it does not outcompete local flora.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Shrub
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to California’s coastal regions, including the northern and central coast and the coastal mountain ranges, and adaptable to poor soils

Other Names

Common Names: Rush Lotus, Slender Deervetch, Rush Trefoil

Scientific Names: , Acmispon junceus, Drepanolobus junceus, Hosackia juncea, Lotus junceus, Syrmatium biolettii, Syrmatium junceum,

GBIF Accepted Name: