Species
Forsythia x intermediaForsythia11 other cultivars
‘Show Off’Show Off Forsythia
‘Lynwood Gold’Lynwood Gold Forsythia
‘Magical Gold’Magical Gold Forsythia
‘Nimbus’Nimbus Forsythia
‘Showy Border’Showy Border Forsythia
‘Kolgold’Kolgold Magical Gold Forsythia
‘New Hampshire Gold’New Hampshire Gold Forsythia
‘Mindor’Mindor Forsythia
‘Northern Gold’Northern Gold Forsythia
‘Minfor6’Show Off Sugar Baby Forsythia
‘Spring Glory’Spring Glory Border Forsythia
The Story
Plant Bio
Forsythia x intermedia 'Starlet' is a deciduous shrub known for its dense, arching branches and bright yellow, bell-shaped flowers that bloom profusely in early spring before the leaves emerge.
This cultivar is distinguished by its compact size and vigorous flowering, making it ideal for small gardens and early spring floral displays.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
30 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
15-20 years
Native To
Cultivated hybrid
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Early spring – Late spring
In flower about 3 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck young plants into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
- Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape.
- Mulch around base to conserve moisture.
- Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
- Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for best flowering and ensure well-drained soil.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to promote healthy growth
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late summer or fall
- Never plant in poorly drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Forsythia Starlet questions
What zones can Forsythia Starlet grow in?
Forsythia Starlet 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 Forsythia Starlet deer resistant?
Yes — Forsythia Starlet is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Forsythia Starlet bloom?
Forsythia Starlet typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Forsythia Starlet need full sun?
Forsythia Starlet does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Forsythia Starlet drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Forsythia Starlet handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Forsythia to compare
Show Off Forsythia
Forsythia x intermedia 'Show Off'
Lynwood Gold Forsythia
Forsythia x intermedia 'Lynwood Gold'
Magical Gold Forsythia
Forsythia x intermedia 'Magical Gold'
Meadowlark Forsythia
Forsythia 'Meadowlark'
Nimbus Forsythia
Forsythia x intermedia 'Nimbus'
Showy Border Forsythia
Forsythia x intermedia 'Showy Border'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Forsythia Starlet 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.