Witch hazels (Hamamelis) are much underused shrubs and are probably better known for the astringent lotion used to dab on cuts and bruises than for their beautiful display of flowers in the coldest, darkest days of Winter. In fact they brighten up both ends of the year with a fiery display of autumnal leaf colour, which can range from soft butter yellow to vivid orange and scarlet.
The most commonly grown variety is Hamamelis mollis “Pallida” with a compact habit and a prolific display of sweetly scented sulphur yellow spidery flowers. Growing to just 1m in height it is probably the smallest variety available.
Most other varieties are hybrids between H. mollis and H. japonica and are usually labelled as Hamamelis x intermedia. Most of these are more vigorous and can reach 3m in 10years. H. x intermedia “Arnold Promise” has an award of garden merit and has bright yellow, richly scented flowers and outstanding orange/red autumn leaf colour. “Westerstede” is another excellent golden yellow variety, and “Orange Beauty” has unusual burnt orange flowers. “Firecracker” has bright orange red flowers and “Diane” has lightly scented red flowers, followed by red autumn leaf colour.
Witch hazels prefer an acid soil, well drained but water retentive in Summer. They tolerate shade but flower better in a bright open position. Dig in plenty of compost at planting and mulch with compost, bark or leaf mould to retain moisture in Summer. Little in the way of pruning is required, but can be carried out after flowering if your plant is getting too big. They can be underplanted with other early flowering plants such as snowdrops, primroses and hellebores for a display that will lift the spirits long after the Christmas glow has worn off!