Golden Bell | Forsythia suspensa

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Forsythia suspensa, commonly known as Golden Bell, is one of the more iconic spring-blooming shrubs. It is a large, deciduous shrub that grows up to ten feet tall and wide, and it produces bright yellow flowers that add much-needed color to gardens after winter. This shrub can be used to create an architectural presence in the garden and can also be used as a screen or windbreak.

The genus name “Forsythia” was named by Charles Alexandre de Lesseps in honor of William Forsyth, a Scottish botanist who was superintendent of the Royal Garden at Kensington Palace. His species name, “suspensa”, translates to “suspended” or “suspending” and refers to the iconic pendulous look of the branches.

How to plant

Golden Bell is very easy to plant and maintain. It needs plenty of sunlight (at least 6 hours per day) and soil that is slightly acidic and well-draining. When it comes to watering, they should be watered sufficiently but not overwatered. It prefers temperatures that stay below 70°F, and too much humidity can lead to the development of disease. In terms of fertilizing, a balanced fertilizer should be used monthly to ensure plenty of healthy growth.

Meaning and symbolism

In ancient China, Golden Bell was used to symbolize bravery, strength, and wealth. It’s bright yellow blossoms are often seen in a crowd, standing out even when surrounded by other flowers. This unique characteristic has been a great metaphor for standing out in the crowd. The bluish-green leaves add to the symbolism associated with the flower, representing peace and tranquility.

History, mythology, and religious significance

Forsythia suspensa have its own mythology, where it is believed that spring’s arrival can be heralded by the blooming of the Golden Bell. In many religions, Golden Bell is used as a symbol of rebirth and resurrection, due to its appearance after the long winter months. In Buddhism, the flower has been used to represent enlightenment and eternity, while in Christianity, it is believed that Golden Bell symbolizes God’s mercy and love for mankind.

Flower varieties and their defining characteristics

Forsythia suspensa has many different varieties that feature different characteristics. One of the most popular varieties is the “Lynwood Gold”, which features bright yellow flowers and deep green foliage. It grows up to five feet tall and wide, and its blooms appear early on in the spring season. Another variety, “Sunrise” features large, yellow-orange blooms that last throughout the entire spring season. It also grows to a slightly larger size, up to six feet tall and wide, and is considered to be one of the hardiest varieties.

How to pot and repot

It is important to use the right type of pot and potting soil when planting Golden Bell. A pot that is big enough to contain the roots can be useful when trying to keep this shrub in a manageable size. The soil should have a slightly acidic pH and loam or sandy soil can be beneficial for plants in containers. When repotting, it is important to make sure that the root ball is kept intact and that you use new potting soil and fertilizer. Additionally, be sure to water the plant thoroughly before and after transplanting.

How to prune

Pruning your Golden Bell is an important part of keeping it healthy, as it will help it maintain its shape and structure, as well as remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done in the late winter, before the plants enter their newest growth cycle. Care should be taken when pruning as to not damage any healthy branches. If you are removing many branches, be sure to cut just above a leaf node and not too close to the trunk. Finally, prune all damaged branches back to the healthy wood and use pruning sealers to protect against disease.

How to propagate

Propagating Forsythia suspensa can be done using cuttings or layering. When propagating using cuttings, it is important to use sharp, clean scissors and take semi-hardwood cuttings from actively growing shoots in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be about six inches long and placed in a mixture of perlite and vermiculite. The cuttings should then be placed in a humid environment and should not be allowed to dry out. When propagating using layering, choose a branch with mature growth and bend it to the ground while leaving a few inches of the branch above the soil. The branch should then be covered with soil and the roots should be dug up in the late spring or summer.

Common pests and diseases

Forsythia suspensa is generally a very healthy plant and is not prone to a high number of pests or diseases. The most common pest is the aphid, which can be managed with insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. Additional pests that may affect the golden bell are scales and spider mites, which can be managed using natural predators. Diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust may also appear, and these can generally be managed with the use of fungicides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Forsythia suspensa?

A: You should water Golden Bell every couple of weeks, depending on the season, sunlight hours, and temperature. During the hotter months, you should increase watering to once per week.

Q: Can Forsythia suspensa be planted in a pot?

A: Yes, Forsythia suspensa can be planted in a pot. It is important to use a pot that is big enough to contain the roots to avoid overgrowth. It is also important to water the plant regularly and use well-draining soil.

Q: What is the best time for planting Golden Bell?

A: The best time to plant Golden Bell is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild. It is important to avoid planting in the summer heat.

Table Fact Sheet

Golden Bell	Forsythia suspensa
Family	Oleaceae
Plant Type	Perennial
Mature Size	10 feet tall and wide
Sun Exposure	Full Sun
Soil Type	Slightly acidic, well-draining
Soil pH	5.6 – 6.2
Bloom Time	Early to mid-spring
Flower Color	Yellow
Hardiness Zones	5 – 8
Native Area	China