Plant Information: Retama monosperma (Bridal broom)

Bridal broom (also known as Genista monosperma and bridal broom) is a non-native invasive shrub, probably native to Spain and southern Africa. It has been apparently been used as an ornamental is the US for some time. It is a tall wood shrub that can reach heights up to about 12 feet. It does not have 'leafy' leaves, rather just green stems. It is a member of the pea family and blooms white. There are one or two seeds in each fruit pod, which splits open explosively when it dries, causing the seeds to be scattered. A single individual can produce hundreds of seeds that can remain viable in the soil for many years. The only recorded invasion in California is in Fallbrook, in northern San Diego county. This invasion is believed to have originated from a nursery and has been mostly contained, except for a few isolated individuals that that the Weed Management Area is going to address in 2000. Although this plant is not considered a serious threat due to its limited distribution, we think it is important that people are aware of this plant so that they can identify it if it emerges somewhere.

• Retama monosperma photo gallery

If you see this plant, please report the location to wma@smslrwma.org.