Botanical name:

Carmichaelia williamsii

Common name(s):

Broom, Giant-flowered broom, Native broom, William s Broom

Plant facts:

A rare and robust coastal shrub characterised by its erect, leafless, and wide, flattened, green branches. The branches typically measure between 5-12mm in width and feature a distinct wavy edge, with the lower branches often drooping elegantly. Its flowers are notably large, reaching lengths of up to 25mm, exhibit a pea-like shape, and can be found in striking shades of white or yellow, occasionally adorned with subtle stripes for added visual interest.

Natural habitat:

A strictly coastal species of open forest, scrub, cliff faces and talus slopes.

Growing environment:

Sun, Drought, Free draining & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North Island only, were it known mainly from northern offshore islands (particularly the Poor Knights and Alderman Islands) to East Cape. On the mainland it is now known from only two small remnant populations near East Cape.

Height: 3m

Flowering: From July and October (though sporadic flowering may occur throughout the year) with Green or Yellow coloured flowers.

Fruiting:

Throughout the year with a dry flattened pod containing 5-15 hard orange and black seeds.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Drought prone areas & Flowers.

How to grow:

Easy from seed or hardwood cuttings. Seed germinates best if scarified and then soaked over night. An excellent winter to early spring flowering shrub for a coastal or lowland garden. Prefers full sun and free draining soil but will tolerate semi-shade. This species is usually short-lived (5-15 years), and it is wise to keep a few replacement plants going in pots just in case. Although it will tolerate snow and frost, it is better grown in warmer climates.

** Seed requires scarification before sowing. Hot water treatment works well for this species.