Friday, May 16, 2014

Scotch Broom


 Scotch broom is a perennial that blooms from April through June and grows 3-10 feet tall. Originally called Scot's Broom, Scotch broom was introduced from Europe as an ornamental and for erosion control. It's highly aggressive, displaces native plants and disrupts wildlife habitat. According to the Oregon government website, it's estimated that Scotch broom costs Oregon $47 million dollars annually in lost timber production

While it looks spectacular on the hillside across from King Estate Winery, it's sad to see how much it has spread in the last few years.

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