Family: Fabaceae Genus: Genista  

Species: Genista tridentata L.

Common Name(s): Mediterranean broom, prickly broom, three-toothed broom; (Galician) carqueyxa; (Portuguese) carqueja

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Genista tridentata, commonly known as Mediterranean broom, is a flowering shrub native to the Mediterranean region, and particularly found in Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece. It is well-adapted to dry, rocky habitats, including coastal cliffs, scrublands, and open woodlands. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, tolerating drought and poor soil conditions.126

This straggly bush has bright yellow flowers and small, dark green, rounded leaves, while the stems have sharp woody prickles. By summer’s end, the flowers and leaves are all gone, the branches have dried and turned grey, and all that remains is the prickles.127

Traditional Medicine

The flower of this plant has been used to treat a long list of medical issues associated with the respiratory system, digestive tract, nervous system, urinary system, skin health, diabetes, colds, stomach pains, intestinal problems, kidney disease, liver and gallbladder problems, rheumatism, pneumonia, bronchitis and tracheitis, headaches, cough, low blood pressure, high cholesterol, and weight loss. It should come as no surprise that this plant is named “carqueja” in several regions in Portugal, meaning the “plant that heals everything.”128

Ecology

Mediterranean broom plays an important role in Mediterranean ecosystems by providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. Its dense foliage and thorny branches offer shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals, while its flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Unfortunately, it has been introduced to other parts of the world where it has become invasive in certain habitats.129