When we're desperate for a bit of spring...anything popping up and out, the witch hazel 'Jelena' comes through for us! In late January or early February - even in the snow - she slowly begins to bloom her unique signature petals which appear crimped, twisted almost spidery and as long as an inch. She is often called 'Copper Beauty' because of her luxurious color variations ...and her scent is very pleasant! Her fall colors are also gorgeous!
The genus Hamamelis is comprised of four species: 2 native to the United States and one each from Japan and China. While H. virginiana, or common witch hazel, is native to North America, most gardeners have turned to the witch hazel hybrid, H. x intermedia, for ornamental and landscape uses.
The botanical name, Hamamelis, translates to "together with fruit", which refers to the fact that the fruit and flowers occur on the same plant at the same time (a very unique feature of native North American trees). This adds interest to your garden as the leaves fill in on the branches.
'Arnold Promise' is another popular hybrid, with lemon yellow, sweetly scented flowers. Like 'Jelena', this witch hazel is winter hardy and drought tolerant. In the fall, the leaves turn brilliant autumn color in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
'Arnold Promise' is another popular hybrid, with lemon yellow, sweetly scented flowers. Like 'Jelena', this witch hazel is winter hardy and drought tolerant. In the fall, the leaves turn brilliant autumn color in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Another beauty that does well in our area is 'Diane' - with her brilliant red blossoms and red/yellow leaves in the fall. More details at the link below.
It's no small wonder that the Witch Hazel is called the Queen of Winter!