Greenstem Forsythia

(Forsythia viridissima)

Greenstem Forsythia (Forsythia viridissima)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Forsythia viridissima, commonly known as Greenstem Forsythia, is a deciduous shrub native to open woodlands and forest edges in China. It typically grows to a height of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) and a width of 5-9 feet (1.5-2.7 meters). The plant is known for its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge, making it one of the first plants to herald the end of winter. The flowers are quite showy, and the stems are a distinctive green, which is less common among Forsythia species.

Greenstem Forsythia is valued for its early spring bloom and is often used in mass plantings, as a border, or as a specimen in residential gardens. It is relatively low maintenance, adaptable to various soil types, and prefers full sun to part shade. While it tolerates medium moisture, well-drained soils are ideal for optimal growth. Pruning immediately after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages vigorous growth. It is generally disease-resistant but can be affected by leaf spot and crown gall.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 0.8-1 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands and forest edges, typical height of 6-10 feet, typical width of 5-9 feet, yellow spring flowers

Other Names

Common Names: Chinese Golden Bell Tree, Green-Stemmed Forsythia, Korean Forsythia, Green-Stemmed Forsythia, Forsythia Vert, Recht Chinees Klokje, 약개나리, 의성개나리

Scientific Names: , Forsythia viridissima, Forsythia viridissima var. incisa, Forsythia viridissima var. bronxensis, Rangium koreanum var. fertile, Rangium viridissimum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Forsythia viridissima Lindl.