Forsythia hybrid Courtesol

Goldilocks Forsythia

Forsythia × intermedia ‘Courtesol’ — commonly called Goldilocks® Forsythia — is a compact, deciduous shrub valued for its bright early spring blooms and tidy, mounded habit. It forms a dense, rounded plant with upright to slightly arching branches. In early spring, before the foliage emerges, the stems are covered in vibrant golden-yellow flowers, creating a strong burst of color that signals the start of the growing season.

Mature Size:
Width: 3–4 ft
Height: 2–3 ft

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best flowering in full sun)
Soil: Average, well-drained soils; adaptable
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Attracts early-season pollinators

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Compact, mounded deciduous shrub with upright to arching stems
Bright yellow flowers provide early spring color
Excellent for borders, foundation plantings, and mass plantings
Smaller size fits well in residential landscapes
Reliable, easy-to-grow spring bloomer

Maintenance:
Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape
Blooms on old wood; avoid late-season pruning
Remove older stems periodically to encourage new growth

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub

Height

2-3'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Green

Soil

Highly Adaptable, Well Drained

Landscape use

Hedge

Shape

Clump, Compact, Mounded

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No