We know spring has arrived in northern climes when we see the cheery yellow blooms of the ubiquitous forsythias in April. Named after William Forsyth, one of the founders of the Royal Horticultural Society in the 18th century, forsythias are medium to large shrubs that produce four- petaled clusters of bell-shaped flowers in the axils of the stiff, rough branches. Forsythia x intermedia is a cross between Forsythia viridissima and Forsythia suspensa var. fortunei. It was found as a chance seedling in the Botanic Garden of Gottingen, Germany, in 1885. It was found to be hardier than either parent and has given rise to many popular cultivars. Although not noted for fall color, in good seasons the shrubs will have an interesting mix of yellow, red and purple leaves.

‘Lynwood’ is an old standard bred in Ireland in the 1930’s. The flowers open wider than other species, and completely cover the branches after a mild winter. The flower buds can be damaged by extreme cold. It grows upright to 8’ tall with an equal spread. This is one of the most common varieties seen growing in hedges around older homes. Forsythias are very adaptable to poor soils and varying moisture, but the flower buds may be tender on older cultivars. Pruning is best done immediately after flowering, giving new growth time to form flower buds. Never shear forsythias into “green meatballs”, as their natural shapes are graceful enough.