Complete Gardening
Witch hazels are captivating shrubs known for their unique, spider-like blooms that add a touch of magic to any garden. With a variety of colors and fragrances, these plants are a gardener’s delight, especially during the colder months when most plants are dormant.
In this post, we explore 11 varieties of witch hazel, each with its own charm and allure. From the vibrant reds of ‘Diane’ to the striking yellows of ‘Arnold Promise’, these plants not only offer visual interest but also provide a delightful fragrance that can invigorate the senses.
1. Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Diane’
The ‘Diane’ variety of witch hazel is celebrated for its deep red to copper blooms that appear from late winter to early spring. These blooms are lightly scented, offering a subtle fragrance that complements their striking appearance.
Known as one of the showiest red-flowered varieties, ‘Diane’ stands out in any garden setting. Its vibrant colors provide a stark contrast against the bare branches of winter, creating a visual spectacle.
Gardeners appreciate ‘Diane’ not only for its beauty but also for its resilience in cold conditions, making it a reliable choice for winter landscapes. It’s a perfect focal point.
2. Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Jelena’
‘Jelena’ is renowned for its coppery-orange blooms that open wide under the winter sun. This variety blooms from mid- to late-winter, providing a splash of color when most plants are dormant.
With a mild fragrance, ‘Jelena’ is a subtle charmer in the garden. Its flowers are best appreciated in sunlight, where they open fully and display their unique form. Additionally, ‘Jelena’ offers excellent fall foliage, adding to its year-round appeal.
It thrives in a variety of soil conditions, making it versatile and easy to care for. A must-have for anyone looking to enhance their garden’s winter beauty.
3. Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Arnold Promise’
‘Arnold Promise’ is a bright yellow variety that blooms in late winter, known for its strong, sweet fragrance. This witch hazel is very cold-hardy, making it a popular choice for gardeners in colder climates.
Its vibrant flowers stand out against the winter landscape, creating a cheerful display. ‘Arnold Promise’ is not only admired for its beauty but also for its ability to thrive in less-than-ideal conditions.
It can be planted in a variety of locations, from sunny spots to partial shade, and still produce abundant blooms. Its reliability and charm make it a garden favorite.
4. Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Pallida’
The ‘Pallida’ variety of witch hazel is one of the earliest bloomers, with pale lemon-yellow flowers appearing in mid-winter. These blooms are strongly scented, filling the air with a refreshing fragrance.
‘Pallida’ flowers glow in low light, adding a mystical quality to the garden. This variety is perfect for those looking to brighten up their landscape during the darker months.
It is known for its robust growth and adaptability, making it suitable for various garden environments. ‘Pallida’ is a standout choice for anyone seeking early winter blooms with a charming scent.
5. Hamamelis mollis (Chinese Witch Hazel)
Chinese Witch Hazel, or Hamamelis mollis, is famous for its bright yellow blooms with long, ribbon-like petals. These flowers appear in late winter, releasing a strong and sweet fragrance that invigorates the senses.
The petals are longer than those of other species, giving this variety a distinctive appearance. It’s an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a plant with unique floral characteristics.
Hamamelis mollis thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making it versatile for different garden settings. Its striking flowers and captivating scent make it a focal point in any landscape.
6. Hamamelis vernalis (Ozark Witch Hazel)
Ozark Witch Hazel, or Hamamelis vernalis, is native to the U.S. and is celebrated for its yellow to reddish-orange blooms. These flowers appear from late winter to early spring and are known for their spicy, clove-like scent.
This variety is very cold-tolerant, making it ideal for gardeners in colder regions. Its blooms add a vibrant touch to the landscape, creating a warm contrast against the winter backdrop.
Hamamelis vernalis is adaptable to various soil conditions, enhancing its appeal as a low-maintenance plant. Its unique scent and colorful blooms make it a garden favorite.
7. Hamamelis virginiana (Common Witch Hazel)
Common Witch Hazel, or Hamamelis virginiana, is unique for its yellow blooms that appear in late fall when most plants are bare. These lightly scented flowers add a splash of color to the autumn landscape, providing visual interest when few other plants are in bloom.
This variety is hardy and adaptable, thriving in a range of soil conditions. Its ability to bloom in the fall sets it apart from other witch hazels, making it a valuable addition to any garden.
Hamamelis virginiana is an excellent choice for those who want to extend their garden’s blooming season.
8. Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Orange Beauty’
‘Orange Beauty’ is a captivating variety with vivid orange blooms that appear in mid-winter. These flowers are mildly fragrant, adding a subtle scent to the garden. The eye-catching blooms create a dramatic contrast against the bare branches, offering a striking visual appeal.
‘Orange Beauty’ is a resilient plant, thriving in various soil conditions and climates. Its vibrant color and unique flowers make it a standout choice for gardeners seeking to add a touch of brightness to their winter landscape.
This variety is not only beautiful but also easy to care for, making it a popular option.
9. Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Ruby Glow’
‘Ruby Glow’ is a striking witch hazel variety known for its red to deep burgundy blooms that appear in late winter. The petals are curled and ribbon-like, adding a unique texture to the flowers.
‘Ruby Glow’ is particularly striking in snowy settings, where its bold colors contrast beautifully with the white surroundings. This variety is mildly fragrant, offering a gentle scent that enhances its appeal.
It’s a hardy plant that thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a pop of color to their winter landscape.
10. Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Feuerzauber’ (Fire Charm)
The ‘Feuerzauber’, or ‘Fire Charm’, variety is known for its fiery orange-red blooms that appear in late winter. These mildly fragrant flowers add a dramatic splash of color to the garden, making them ideal for those seeking winter interest.
‘Feuerzauber’ thrives in a range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and is known for its resilience in cold weather. Its vibrant blooms and hardy nature make it a popular choice among gardeners.
The unique color and form of its flowers ensure that ‘Feuerzauber’ stands out in any landscape, offering visual warmth.
11. Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Primavera’
‘Primavera’ is celebrated for its bright yellow blooms that appear early to mid-winter, known for their strong fragrance. These long-lasting flowers provide abundant color and cheer to the garden during the colder months.
‘Primavera’ is a robust variety, thriving in various soil types and conditions. It’s an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add winter interest to their landscapes.
The combination of its vibrant color and delightful scent makes ‘Primavera’ a standout among witch hazels. Its ability to produce abundant blooms during winter makes it a valuable addition to any garden.