shrub

Magical Gold Forsythia

Forsythia intermedia 'Kolgold'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

54 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Deciduous shrub

Native To

Garden origin (hybrid)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Forsythia are fast-growing, deciduous shrubs famed for their profuse, four-petaled yellow flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring, appearing on bare stems before the leaves emerge. 'Kolgold', sold as MAGICAL GOLD, is a compact variety noted for its exceptionally large, deep golden-yellow flowers that densely cover the stems from the ground up, creating a spectacular early-season display.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a massive burst of brilliant golden-yellow color in the landscape when little else is blooming, acting as a cheerful harbinger of spring. Its graceful, arching form is attractive even after the flowers fade.

Its fast growth and dense habit make it an excellent choice for creating informal hedges and privacy screens. The long, flower-laden stems can be cut in late winter and forced to bloom indoors.

The early flowers provide a much-needed nectar source for bees and other pollinators that emerge on warm days in late winter and early spring.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sun daily.
Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball.
Place the shrub in the hole, with the top of the root ball level with the soil.
Backfill with the original soil and firm it gently around the roots.
Water the plant thoroughly immediately after planting.
Add a 2-inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.

Pro Tip

For the best flower display, prune out about one-third of the oldest, thickest stems at the base of the plant right after flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in full sun for the most prolific blooms.
Prune right after the spring bloom is over.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
Renew the plant every few years by cutting old stems to the ground.
Allow it to grow in its natural arching form.

Don't

Don't prune in the summer or fall; you'll cut off next year's flower buds.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which results in poor flowering.
Don't shear it into a formal, tight shape; it ruins the natural habit.
Avoid poorly drained, constantly wet soils.
Don't over-fertilize, as it is not a heavy feeder.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant early spring accentCheerful informal hedge or screenAnchor plant in a mixed border

Companion Plants

Narcissus (Daffodils) Tulipa (Tulips) Spiraea thunbergii 'Ogon' Viburnum carlesii Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Magical Gold Forsythia questions

What zones can Magical Gold Forsythia grow in?

Magical Gold 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 Magical Gold Forsythia deer resistant?

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

When does Magical Gold Forsythia bloom?

Magical Gold Forsythia typically blooms in late winter through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Magical Gold Forsythia need full sun?

Magical Gold Forsythia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Magical Gold Forsythia drought tolerant?

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