shrub RHS Award

Spring Glory Border Forsythia

Forsythia x intermedia 'Spring Glory'

$21.33

The Story

Plant Bio

Forsythia intermedia, or border forsythia, is a popular deciduous shrub known for its profuse, early spring bloom of bright yellow flowers that appear before the leaves.

'Spring Glory' is noted for its particularly abundant and large, brilliant yellow flowers that cover its arching stems, creating a spectacular seasonal display.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesForsythia is the quintessential harbinger of spring, providing a massive burst of cheerful yellow color when little else is in bloom. Its graceful, arching branches create an attractive form even after the flowers fade.
Practical UsesIt can be used to create a fast-growing, dense informal hedge or privacy screen. The branches are also excellent for forcing indoors in late winter for an early touch of spring color.
Ecological BenefitsThe early flowers provide a crucial nectar source for bees and other pollinators emerging from winter dormancy, supporting local insect populations at a critical time.
SpeciesForsythia x intermediaForsythia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

20-30 years

Native To

Garden origin (Asia)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$21.33
In Stock$69.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a location with at least six hours of direct sun daily.
  2. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
  3. Amend heavy clay or poor soil with compost before planting.
  4. Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the crown is level with the soil.
  5. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots.
  6. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Prune oldest stems to the ground after flowering every few years to rejuvenate the shrub and promote vigorous blooming on new wood.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for the best flower production.
  • Prune right after flowering finishes in spring.
  • Water deeply during prolonged dry spells, especially in the first year.
  • Allow the plant to maintain its natural arching form.

Don't

  • Don't prune in late summer, fall, or winter, as you'll remove flower buds.
  • Avoid shearing into a formal, unnatural shape.
  • Don't over-fertilize, which can lead to excessive foliage and fewer flowers.
  • Don't plant in poorly drained or waterlogged soil.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Explosive early spring colorInformal hedge or screenMixed shrub border anchor

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Spring Glory Border Forsythia questions

What zones can Spring Glory Border Forsythia grow in?

Spring Glory Border Forsythia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Spring Glory Border Forsythia deer resistant?

Yes — Spring Glory Border Forsythia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Spring Glory Border Forsythia bloom?

Spring Glory Border Forsythia typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Spring Glory Border Forsythia need full sun?

Spring Glory Border Forsythia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Spring Glory Border Forsythia drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Spring Glory Border Forsythia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Spring Glory Border Forsythia with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.