Early Forsythia (Forsythia ovata)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Shrub

Early Forsythia
Forsythia ovata

Leaves of Early Forsythia
Leaves of Early Forsythia
 
Features
Bright yellow flowers in early spring. 
 
Culture
Full sun; well-drained soils; tolerates alkaline soil. 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Sunrise'-Form is rounded and compact.
 
 
Mature Height
4-6 Feet
 
Size
Small
 
 
Mature Width
4-6 Feet
 
Mature Form
Upright 
 
Native To:
Korea 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 7 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Alkaline Soil
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Uses
Border
Massing
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Pests and Problems
 
Additional Notes

Forsythia hybrids: various species of forsythia have been crossed to produce hybrids that are more cold hardy. These include the following:

  • 'Happy Centennial'- 2 1/2 feet tall, flowers heavily, flower buds are cold hardy.
  • 'Meadowlark'- 6 to 9 feet tall, flowers heavily, flower buds cold hardy, arching branches.
  • 'New Hampshire Gold'- 5 feet tall, deep yellow flowers, flower buds are cold hardy.
  • 'Northern Gold'- 6 to 8 feet tall, flower buds are cold hardy, upright habit.

 

 
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