Hybrid Witch Hazel

Hybrid witch hazel (Hamamelis × intermedia, Hamamelidaceae) is a slow-growing deciduous shrub of horticultural origin (H. japonica × H. mollis), reaching about 15 feet tall with open branching. Fragrant flowers with crinkled strap-like petals in yellow to red tones appear on bare branches in late winter to early spring, making it one of the earliest flowering shrubs. Fall color ranges from orange to red.

Hybrid witch hazel grows in sun to part shade on well-drained soils (pH 5.0 to 6.5) with moderate water needs, hardy in Zones 5a to 8b. It blooms on old wood; prune after flowering. Root weevil is the primary pest of record. Cultivars include 'Arnold Promise' (yellow), 'Diane' (copper-red), 'Jelena' (copper), and 'Primavera' (yellow).