(Spartium junceum)
Family: Fabaceae

Warning:
All parts of the plant are poisonous to humans if consumed.

Description
A nearly leafless, yellow flowering shrub from Europe and now a troublesome weed in the West. Height is 6–10 ft. (1.8–3 m). Stems are brushlike, green, slender, spineless and more or less leafless. Flowers are 1 in. (2.5 cm) pea flowers, in very showy terminal cluster up to 18 in. (45 cm) long. Fruit is 2–4 in. (5–10 cm) pods that contain many seeds.

Habitat
Introduced species found in disturbed habitats, such as roadsides and waste areas. Non-native to New Mexico.

Discussion
This tree has been widely planted along banks and roadsides and for ornament on the West Coast. It is a threat to native plants and habitats and is classified as a noxious weed and an exotic pest in several states.