Broom

Broom, Sarothamnus scoparius, a common shrub of Western Europe, forming the type of a small genus of Leguminosae, separated from Cytisus (q.v.) by the very long curved style and minute stigma. The stems of the shrub grown in Algeria are imported for walking-sticks under the trade name of Black Orange. The twigs are made into baskets in Madeira; are used as winter food for sheep; and, as an infusion, are employed medicinally. The broom is the badge of the clan Forbes, and its golden-yellow blossoms have often been celebrated by poets.