Forsythia Citrus Swizzle

Citrus Swizzle Forsythia

Forsythia ‘Citrus Swizzle’ — commonly called Variegated Forsythia — is a compact, deciduous shrub valued for its bright spring blooms and striking variegated foliage. It forms a dense, mounding plant with green leaves edged in creamy yellow, providing season-long interest. In early spring, before the leaves fully emerge, the branches are covered in bright golden-yellow flowers, creating a vivid display that signals the start of the season.

Mature Size:
Width: 3–4 ft
Height: 3–4 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
Bright yellow spring flowers provide early-season color
Variegated foliage offers continued interest after bloom
Excellent for borders, mass plantings, and foundation use
Works well in smaller landscapes due to its compact size

Maintenance:
Prune immediately after flowering to shape and encourage new growth
Avoid heavy late-season pruning, as it blooms on old wood
Remove any all-green shoots to maintain variegation

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub

Height

3-4'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Spring

Flower color

Gold

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Gold

Soil

Normal, Well Drained

Landscape use

Mass Planting

Shape

Broad Upright

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No