Nothing is more welcome in winter or early spring then when the first plant blooms. Witch hazel is usually that plant with its shaggy looking red or yellow fragrant blooms on leafless stems. This is a shrub to plant close to a window so that you can enjoy all that it has to offer from the warmth and comfort of your home. And in the fall witch hazel rewards you with its lovely autumn coloration ranging form yellow, through orange to red.
Type: Deciduous shrub.
Bloom: Winter; red or yellow; especially attractive when backlit.
Size: 10-20’ H x 15’ W.
Light: Partial shade.
Soil: Moist, slightly acid, average fertility.
Hardiness: Zones 4-8.
Care: Prune to shape removing suckers and damaged branches as necessary.
Pests and Diseases: No significant problems.
Companion plants: Holly, mahonia, azalea.
Outstanding Selections:
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- ‘Diane’ (copper red)
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- Jelena’ (copper red)
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- ‘Carmine Red’ (deep bronze)
- ‘Arnold Promise’ (golden yellow).
Dear Karen,
I found your biographical sketch under your “About”
button enlightening, especially the part about your
second-grade garden, fashioned from a sand-filled flat and twigs and leaves from our father’s rock
gardens. I always thought that was a kitty litter,
a hint for cats to compliment our German Shepherd.
I guess Dad just didn’t get it but Chuck did so
it worked out after all. 🙂
Your loving little brother,
A_Winthrop
Ends