Cytisus scoparius (L.) Link

Much-branched deciduous shrub up to 2-(2.5) m high; twigs glabrous, but sericeous when young, green, ± 5-angled. Lvs variable, usually ± glabrous above and sericeous below, and 3-foliolate and petiolate when mature or on older twigs; lvs of younger twigs often 1-2-foliolate and subsessile; young lvs often sericeous above and below but sometimes glabrous; leaflets apetiolulate, elliptic to obovate, usually acute, sometimes emarginate, 4-16-(20) mm long; terminal leaflet > lateral leaflets. Fls usually solitary, rarely paired, axillary; pedicels (3)-5-13 mm long. Calyx glabrous, bilabiate, c. 1/4 length of corolla; upper and lower lips ± entire or shallowly toothed. Corolla usually golden yellow, rarely partly red or tinged mauve, 16-25 mm long. Pod black, oblong, many-seeded, 15-60 mm long, with hairy margins; seeds brown or greenish brown, ellipsoid, compressed, c. 3 mm long.

Sandy pastures and heaths, occasionally in open woodland, growing in a wide range of disturbed and undisturbed habitats, often along river systems and often near the coast. The plant is strongly calcifuge.

The buds can be pickled. They are used as a substitute for capers. The flowers have also been used to give a slight bitter taste to beer in place of hops.

Plants can be grown by seeds or cuttings.