Forsythia viridissima koreana 'Kumson'

Kumson Variegated Forsythia

Forsythia viridissima var. koreana ‘Kumson’ — commonly called Kumson Forsythia — is a distinctive, deciduous shrub valued as much for its variegated foliage as its spring blooms. It forms an upright, somewhat spreading plant with green leaves highlighted by bright yellow veining, creating a unique, almost netted appearance. In early spring, bright yellow flowers appear along the stems before or as the foliage emerges, followed by the striking foliage display through the growing season. Leaves may develop attractive purplish tones in fall.

Mature Size:
Width: 4–6 ft
Height: 5–7 ft

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

Wildlife: Attracts early-season pollinators

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Upright to spreading deciduous shrub with a somewhat open habit
Distinctive yellow-veined variegated foliage provides season-long interest
Bright yellow spring flowers add early color
Excellent for specimen use, borders, and mixed plantings
Adds unique foliage texture and color to the landscape

Maintenance:
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage branching
Remove any solid green shoots to preserve variegation
Blooms on old wood; avoid late-season pruning

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub

Height

5-7'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Late Winter

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Green, Yellow

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Highly Adaptable, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Hedge, Mass Planting

Shape

Upright, Wide Spreading

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes