Ulex europaeus Seeds | Gorse
LATIN NAME: Ulex europaeus
COMMON NAME: Gorse, Common Gorse, Furze, Whin
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Gorse, Ulex europaeus is an evergreen shrub in the pea family (Fabaceae), native to western coasts of Europe, while it has been introduced to many other temperate regions. In good conditions it grows to around Two metres. It is hard to name another plant that gives this much for this little trouble.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the pea family, Ulex europaeus draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. Gorse has a real and distinguished place in research. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Gorse has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Ecologically, gorse is a generous shrub of heaths and the cliffs. To raise gorse, sow seeds in pots of gritty, open soil in a sunny, cool place, keep them gently watered, and grow little shrubs on in the sun. Mature plants need little attention in a well-chosen position.
Gorse blazes gold and coconut-scented on poor hillsides, fixing nitrogen and sheltering small birds; its flowers make a traditional country wine.
Growing from Seed
Starting Gorse from seed is simple and satisfying. Level a tray of loose seed compost, sow evenly, cover to about the seed’s own depth, and keep it moist in full light. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
At around two metres, it stays at a scale that suits modest gardens. Established seedlings need little beyond ordinary attention.
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