The Latin epithet of suspensa is derived from suspensus meaning suspended.[5] It was first described and published in Enum. Pl. Obs. Vol.1 on page 39 in 1804.[2]
Description
Forsythia suspensa is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 3 metres (9.8 feet) tall. Its flowers are golden-yellow and they bloom March to April.[2] Leaves are green in color, broadly-ovate, and simple.[2]
It can be grown as a weeping shrub on stream banks and can be identified by its pale flowers. Garden cultivars can be found. It is a spring flowering shrub, with yellow flowers. It is grown and prized for its toughness.[6] Before Forsythia × intermedia was known as a true wild Chinese species, F. suspensa was considered one of its parents.[2]
Distribution and habitat
Forsythia suspensa is native to China. It is introduced in Japan, Spain, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Korea, as well as some parts of the United States.[2] It grows in thickets or grassy areas on slopes and valleys.[7]
