Spanish Gorse (Genista hispanica)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Genista hispanica is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) by 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Scrub and open rocky hills in lowland and mountains. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)