Genista benehoavensis
Care, watering, light and tips for Genista benehoavensis on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Genista benehoavensis
Genista benehoavensis, known as Retamón Palmero, is an endemic shrub from the island of La Palma, in the Canary Islands. It is characterized by its small, silvery leaves and abundant bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring, creating a visual spectacle. It is ideal for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as an ornamental plant in coastal or Mediterranean climates due to its hardiness.
Native range
Canary Islands, Spain
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and prefers well-drained soils, even poor or sandy ones, avoiding waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, and sparse once established. A common mistake is overwatering, which can rot its roots; it is a very drought-tolerant plant.
How to save a dying Genista benehoavensis
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or falling leaves, dry or brittle branches, slow or no growth. Compacted soil.
- First aid
- Repot to a larger container with good drainage and sandy substrate. Prune dry branches. Moderate watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot), lack of direct sunlight, heavy or poorly drained soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the roots are not completely rotted and it receives proper care in time.