University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension - Selecting Shrubs for Your Home
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/shrubselector
Early Forsythia
Forsythia ovata
2 pictures total. Back Next
Leaves of Early Forsythia
Size:
Size: small
Small

Medium

Large
Exposure/ Light Requirements:
Full Shade not required.
Full Shade
Full Sun required.
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade not required.
Partial Sun/Shade
Hardiness Zone: 5 - 7 
Mature Height: 4-6 Feet
Mature Width: 4-6 Feet
Features: Bright yellow flowers in early spring.
Culture: Full sun; well-drained soils; tolerates alkaline soil.
Cultivars:
  • 'Sunrise'-Form is rounded and compact.
Mature Form: Upright
Native To: Korea
Soil Conditions:
Dry
Soil condition: Moist, Well-DrainedMoist, Well-Drained
Wet
Tolerance:
Tolerance: Alkaline SoilAlkaline Soil
Dry Sites
Salt
Soil Compaction
Wet Sites
Tolerance: WindWind
Uses:
Barrier
Use for: Border.Border
Foundation
Hedge
Use for: Massing.Massing
Naturalizing
Screen
Use for: Specimen.Specimen
Foliage Color: Green
 
Fall Foliage Color: Green
 
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.