Broom pods

Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) is native to the Mediterranean areas of Europe. It was intentionally introduced to B.C. in 1850 by Captain Walter Grant who planted broom at his farm on Vancouver Island. Regrettably, few realized the invasiveness of this perennial as it quickly spread up the east coast of Vancouver Island before invading the Gulf Islands and mainland ... This weed is a strong competitor with various native plants including those within declining Garry oak ecosystems as well as newly planted coniferous forests. It competes with native species for available light, moisture and nutrients, especially on disturbed sites. So far there are no known natural predators for this weed... - from Invasive Plants of Southwestern BC