The forsythias most commonly grown as spring bloomers in our latitudes are a cross between F. suspensa and F. viridissima. There are now numerous varieties that differ in height and flower colors. You can even plant a white forsythia in the garden.
What types of forsythia are there and what special features do they offer?
Answer: There are different varieties of forsythia that vary in height and flower color. Popular varieties include Goldrausch, Spectabilis, Minigold, Lynwood, Mikador, Weekend, Beatrix Farrand, Goldzauber, Spring Glory, Tetra Gold and the rare snow forsythia with white flowers. Some varieties are fragrant and/or particularly compact.
Forsythia – hardy and easy to care for
Most forsythia varieties are completely hardy and easy to care for. Only a few exceptions need a little more care.
The colors vary from very light yellow to deep golden flowers. Some varieties are very popular because of their scent.
Small overview of popular forsythia varieties
| Name | Growth height | Growth width | Flower color | Flowering time | Special features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Rush | up to 3 meters | 2 – 3 meters | Yellow, large flowers | Early March to April | very long leaves |
| Spectabilis | up to 3 meters | up to 3 meters | bright yellow | End of March to May | beautiful foliage color |
| Minigold | up to 1.5 meters | up to 1.3 meters | Golden Yellow | March to May | Dwarf variety / suitable for containers |
| Lynwood | up to 3 meters | up to 2 meters | bright yellow | March to May | |
| Mikador | up to 1 meter | up to 1 meter | Yellow | March to May | Dwarf variety, very compact |
| Weekend | up to 2.5 meters | up to 2 meters | Golden Yellow | March to May | |
| Beatrix Farrand | up to 3 meters | up to 2 meters | Dark yellow | March to May | Flowers are fertilized |
| Gold Magic | up to 2 meters | up to 2 meters | Golden Yellow | March to May | fragrant flowers |
| Spring Glory | up to 3 meters | up to 2.5 meters | Light yellow | March to May | very large flowers |
| Tetra Gold | up to 1.5 meters | up to 1.5 meters | Deep Yellow | March to April | Dwarf variety, compact |
| Snow Forsythia | up to 1.5 meters | up to 1.5 meters | White | March to April | Dwarf variety, needs winter protection |
Forsythia variety for natural gardens
The vast majority of forsythia cultivars do not form fertile flowers. They do not produce stamens or nectar.
For gardens close to nature, you should plant “Beatrix Farrand”. This variety is often visited by bees and other insects.
White Forsythia
A special feature is the “Snow Forsythia” variety, which has white flowers. This variety is not as robust and requires winter protection.
Tips & Tricks
Dwarf varieties are well suited for small gardens, cultivation in pots or as bonsai. They are much more compact than the larger varieties and don't take up as much space.
