Golden Bells, Greenstem forsythia, Forsythia

Forsythia viridissima

Physical Characteristics

Forsythia viridissima is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen from August to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Antifungal Antispasmodic Emmenagogue The fruit is antibacterial, antifungal, antispasmdic and emmenagogue[279]. It is used in Korea to treat carbuncles, mastitis, inflammation, suppuration, lymphadenitis and suppressed menstruation[279].

Known Hazards

Leaves contain the glycoside Phillyrin[179], its potency is unknown.