Common Gorse

Common gorse (Irish gorse) is a broadleaf shrub from western Europe that has naturalized in Oregon and other coastal regions of North America. It reaches 2-10 ft with a fast growth rate and produces showy golden-yellow flowers marked red at the base.

Common gorse thrives in full sun with moist, well-drained soil (pH 4.5-7.0) in zones 6a-8b. Growth is rapid with low maintenance. It has become invasive in some regions but is valued for land restoration and erosion control in others. The plant is not toxic and attracts pollinators.