Forsythia is a deciduous, flowering shrub in the olive family, Oleaceae. There are 11 species that are primarily native to Asia.

This is a classic example of a botanical and common name being the same. It is named after Scottish botanist, William Forsyth who was a royal head gardener and a founding member of the Royal Horticultural Society.

This plant is sometimes overlooked because it is “common”. However, it is a reliable, easy to grow plant ideal for property borders to act as human sized screen, therefore I think it deserves a spot in the landscape.

I have a soft spot for forsythia because as a child in Michigan this was the first sign of life after a long, cold winter. Here in zone 7 North Carolina, it blooms much earlier- obviously!

Whether you love or hate them, no one can deny that forsythia have a will to live. They are easy to grow and don’t require any special care.