Forsythia x 'Golden Times'

Golden Times Forsythia

Forsythia × ‘Golden Times’ — commonly called Variegated Forsythia — is a colorful, deciduous shrub valued for its bright variegated foliage and early spring blooms. It forms a medium-sized, upright to arching plant with green leaves boldly edged and splashed with golden-yellow, providing strong season-long interest. In early spring, bright yellow flowers appear along the stems before or as the foliage emerges, adding an additional layer of color.

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

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best variegation and 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: Upright to arching deciduous shrub with a broad habit
Variegated foliage provides season-long color interest
Bright yellow spring flowers add early seasonal color
Excellent for borders, hedges, and mixed plantings
Adds contrast and brightness to the landscape

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

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub

Height

5-7'

Width

5'-7'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Early Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Fall color

Cream, Fern

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Highly Adaptable, Well Drained

Shape

Arching, Clump

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes