Hamamelis | Heijnen Plants

Hamamelis

Shrubs
Garden plants

Hamamelis

Shrubs
Garden plants

350cm

Hamamelis × intermedia 'Arnold Promise' Witch hazel

17^95From

250cm

Hamamelis × intermedia 'Diana' Witch hazel

80-100cm

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57^50From

300cm

Hamamelis × intermedia 'Jelena' Witch hazel

17^95From

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Hamamelis, commonly known as witch hazel, is a captivating genus of deciduous shrubs celebrated for their distinctive early bloom and vivid autumn foliage. This plant is revered for its unique ability to provide color and vibrancy to the garden during the quiet winter months and is a treasure for any landscape.

Key Features

Witch hazels are an eclectic group; their flowers bloom in the chill of winter through to early spring, offering rare splashes of yellow, orange, and red against the stark backdrop of a resting garden. The flowers are not only a visual delight but also emit a subtle, refreshing fragrance. Hamamelis prefers a sunny to partially shaded location and thrives in well-drained soils, though it is adaptable to a variety of soil types.

The foliage of the witch hazel transitions through the seasons, maintaining a lush green in spring and summer before transforming into a spectacle of reds, yellows, and oranges come autumn. The plant's growth habit is generally upright and bushy, and while it is not evergreen, its strong presence is felt year-round.

Hamamelis is relatively low maintenance when it comes to watering, requiring an average amount to sustain its growth. Although not drought-resistant, it does not have high water needs and should be watered regularly during dry spells.

Tips

When it comes to propagation, Hamamelis offers several options. Grafting is ideal for combining the desirable traits of two plants, while layering and chip budding are straightforward techniques perfect for gardeners looking to expand their collection.

Pruning requirements for witch hazels are minimal. They bloom on the previous year's growth, so any pruning should be done with care to avoid cutting off next season's blooms. It is generally best to prune just after flowering to shape the plant if necessary.

For optimal growth, plant Hamamelis in a location that receives full to partial sunlight and ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot. Mulching can help retain moisture and protect the roots during extreme temperatures. Regular watering during dry periods will keep your witch hazel healthy and encourage vibrant blooms and foliage.

Types

Embrace the enchantment of witch hazel, a plant that bewitches the senses with its vibrant, ribbon-like flowers that burst forth in the cool quiet of winter, defying the barren landscape with a flourish of color and fragrance. Ideal for adding a touch of magic to any garden, the witch hazel is a testament to nature's wonders, providing a serene beauty that captivates and delights.

As winter wanes, the Hamamelis intermedia 'Arnold Promise', commonly known as witch hazel, presents a breathtaking display of bright yellow flowers. These blossoms appear on bare branches, bringing a splash of color to the garden during the typically grey months of January, February, and March. This cultivar is celebrated for its vibrant and fragrant flowers, which are a harbinger of spring, infusing the air with a pleasant, spicy scent. The 'Arnold Promise' is a hardy addition to any landscape, offering both aesthetic appeal and a signal of the changing seasons.
As the chill of winter persists, the Hamamelis intermedia 'Diana', or witch hazel, emerges as a herald of the coming spring. With distinctive brown to red flowers, this cultivar captivates the senses, blooming during the late winter months of January through March. The ribbon-like petals unfurl to create an enchanting display against the stark backdrop of the dormant season. 'Diana' is a delightful specimen, adding a touch of warmth to the landscape with its unique and richly colored blossoms.
The Hamamelis intermedia 'Jelena', commonly referred to as witch hazel, is a spellbinding presence in the garden during the coldest months. Its distinctive flowers, which bloom from January to February, weave a tapestry of brown, yellow, and orange against the winter landscape. Unlike the more commonly seen yellow witch hazel varieties, 'Jelena' offers a warm, coppery hue, providing a unique and invigorating spectacle. This variety is not only visually striking but also adds a touch of early color to the garden when most plants are dormant.

Ideal placement of a Hamamelis

The ideal site for Hamamelis is one that can provide full sun to partial shade, allowing its vibrant winter blooms to flourish. It is adaptable to all soil types, provided they are well-drained, which is essential for healthy growth. To optimize the display of its fiery autumn foliage, a location that receives ample sunlight is preferable. Yet, this species is resilient enough to also perform well in areas with dappled light. Consistent moisture is key, as Hamamelis does not possess drought resistance, making regular watering important to maintain its striking seasonal colors and upright to bushy habit.

Planting a Hamamelis

Planting this shrub should be done with care to ensure its vibrant display of winter flowers. Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade and has well-drained soil to accommodate its average water needs. As the plant is pot-grown, it allows for flexibility in planting time, though it's best to avoid extreme weather conditions. When positioning in the soil, ensure the root ball is level with the ground and backfill with soil, pressing down firmly. Water thoroughly after planting to establish a strong root system, which is crucial for the shrub's upright to bushy growth habit and seasonal foliage transformations.

Fertilising a Hamamelis

To ensure the vibrant flowering and robust growth of Hamamelis, it is beneficial to fertilize the shrub annually. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring, just as the plant emerges from dormancy, will provide a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season. The ideal fertilizer should have an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support the development of both foliage and flowers.

When applying fertilizer, spread it evenly around the base of the plant, taking care to avoid direct contact with the stems and leaves to prevent possible burning. Watering after fertilizing will help to dissolve the granules and carry the nutrients down to the roots. This approach will sustain the plant's needs and contribute to its health and longevity.

Pruning a Hamamelis

The enchanting display of Hamamelis is best preserved by minimal pruning. This species thrives when allowed to maintain its natural, bushy growth habit. Pruning should be limited to the removal of any dead or crossed branches to encourage a healthy structure. It is advisable to prune just after the flowering period, as the shrub blooms on the previous year's growth. Careful thinning of the interior branches can be performed to enhance air circulation, but heavy pruning is seldom required, allowing the plant to flourish with an upright, picturesque form.

Watering a Hamamelis

To ensure the vitality of Hamamelis, it requires consistent moisture, particularly during its blooming period in the cooler months. Despite its average water needs, it is crucial to avoid waterlogging, thus well-draining soil is essential. During dry spells, particularly in the growing season, water the shrub deeply to encourage a robust root system. This deep watering technique is more beneficial than frequent, shallow watering, as it supports the plant in establishing a resilience against dry conditions. Less frequent watering may suffice during the dormant season, yet one should always monitor the soil moisture levels to maintain optimal health.

The characteristics of a Hamamelis

One delightful yet often overlooked aspect of Hamamelis is its ability to provide vibrant color during the latter part of the year when most other plants have ceased blooming. The species boasts unique, ribbon-like petals that exude a subtle, spicy fragrance, adding sensory delight to any garden. Additionally, Hamamelis is known for its robust nature, adapting well to a variety of soil conditions when adequately settled in a pot, making it a versatile choice for plant enthusiasts.

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