Hamamelis x Intermedia
Hamamelis x intermedia, also known as Witch Hazel, is an extraordinary plant that brings a touch of colour and charm to gardens during the coldest months of the year. Thanks to its winter bloom, it is cherished for its beauty and ability to brighten even the greyest days. This hybrid, the result of crossing Hamamelis mollis and Hamamelis japonica, has become a key feature in gardens worldwide.
Characteristics of Hamamelis x Intermedia
Common Name: Witch Hazel, Hamamelis
Family: Hamamelidaceae
Origin: A hybrid between Hamamelis mollis (native to China) and Hamamelis japonica (from Japan). It was developed to create a hardy plant with spectacular blooms.
Flowers: The flowers of Hamamelis x intermedia are among the most striking of all garden plants. The blooming period occurs between the end of winter and the beginning of spring, typically from January to February, when many other plants are dormant. The flowers are thin, frilled, and can range in colour from yellow to orange to red, depending on the cultivar.
Size: The plant can reach a height of 3-5 metres, with a width ranging from 2 to 4 metres, forming a bushy plant or small tree.
Leaves: The leaves of Hamamelis x intermedia are deciduous and oval in shape. During autumn, they take on shades of yellow, orange, and red, creating a beautiful contrast with the winter bloom.
Varieties of Hamamelis x Intermedia
Some of the most popular varieties of Hamamelis x intermedia include:
- ‘Diane’: With deep red flowers, this cultivar is loved for its extraordinary colouring.
- ‘Jelena’: Orange-bronze flowers with a delicate fragrance. It is very hardy and adapts well to various soil types.
- ‘Arnold Promise’: Characterised by golden yellow flowers that beautifully contrast with the winter landscape.
Cultivation and Care of Hamamelis x Intermedia
Climate and Soil
Hamamelis x intermedia thrives in temperate climates. It prefers partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sun as long as the soil remains moist. It adapts well to well-drained, slightly acidic soils rich in organic matter.
Planting and Maintenance
The best time to plant Hamamelis x intermedia is in autumn or spring, when the soil is neither too cold nor too hot. Plant the shrub at a depth that allows the roots to expand easily. During the first few years, regular watering may be necessary, especially during dry periods.
Pruning
Pruning of Hamamelis x intermedia is not strictly necessary but can be done to maintain a harmonious shape or to remove dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is just after flowering.
Uses of Hamamelis x Intermedia
This plant is highly valued as an ornamental plant thanks to its extraordinary winter bloom, but it also has other uses:
- Ornamental: Ideal for gardens, parks, and flower beds, it brings a touch of colour and beauty to the colder months.
- Skin Care: While the plant itself is not used for extract production, Hamamelis is known for its medicinal benefits. Preparations made from Hamamelis extract, such as the famous Witch Hazel tonic, are used for their astringent and soothing properties on the skin.
Curiosities
Hamamelis x intermedia is a symbol of resilience and winter beauty, able to bloom during the coldest months when most plants are dormant.
In some cultures, Witch Hazel is considered a plant that brings good luck and protection.
Hamamelis x intermedia is an ornamental plant that not only enriches gardens with its spectacular winter blooms but also brings a sense of freshness to the cold months. If you want to add a touch of winter colour to your garden or a unique element to your plant collection, Hamamelis x intermedia is definitely a perfect choice.
Immagine di Davide Giuseppe Zannini