Tofino plant profile: Hamamelis (witch hazel)
by Trina Mattson, Tofino
Many different varieties of witch hazel (hamamelis) are available, flower colours range from pale yellow, bright yellow, bright red, burnt umber. Has a spicy fragrance medium in strength.Hamamelis is winter hardy, and will put up with rain and freezing weather, blooming starts as soon as the days get longer right after the winter solstice. And regardless of temperature, it blooms about the same time every year, from January to March depending on the variety.
The fall foliage is brightly colored, ranging from yellow to red. There is a fall blooming variety available, but flower color is lost amongst the yellowing leaves. Hamamelis is a maintenance free tree/shrub. An application of compost or organic matter in spring and little else for nutrients is needed. There is no pruning required unless you are trying to shape it, but it isn't needed as Hamamelis has a nice drooping shape as it ages. It likes slightly acidic soil, sun to part shade, and average draining soil.
Make room as it can get to be about 5m x 5m. Pest and disease are not an issue. When choosing a plant for flower colour remember the background color, as the flowers will disappear unless put against a contrasting colour.
Trina Mattson runs the Ordinary Corner nursery in Tofino.
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