Species Japanese witch hazel
yellow-colored, small flowers with burgundy sepals and gray-brown stems

Japanese witch hazel

Hamamelis japonica

Japanese Witch Hazel is one of the most amazing plants known to man. It is an apt choice for small gardens due to its hardy nature and beautiful winter blooms. Aside from its pleasing appearance, it is famous for its medicinal properties. It contains high amounts of tannins which makes it effective in treating various ailments such as inflammation, wounds, sores and skin problems. It also possesses antiseptic and astringent qualities which further aid in its healing process. Japanese Witch Hazel is definitely worth planting for its beauty and healing capabilities.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Japanese witch hazel requires regular watering for optimal growth and health. Water Japanese witch hazel deeply and slowly when the soil begins to feel dry to the touch. If the soil feels dry more than 2 inches beneath the surface, it is time to irrigate. Typically, Japanese witch hazel prefers the soil to stay consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Aim to water deeply about once or twice a week during the growing season. During the cooler months, water once every 2 weeks, more or less depending on the weather.

sunlight

Japanese witch hazel prefers full sun in spring and summer, but in warmer climates it should have some shade in the afternoon to avoid scorching the foliage. In winter it can take some shade, however it still needs at least 4-6 hours of strong sunlight a day to flower.

pruning

Japanese witch hazel should be pruned in early spring, before the buds begin to swell. Prune the plant lightly, removing a few branches at a time. Try to avoid removing more than 1/3 of the shrub's branches in any 1 year. This will keep the plant healthy and help to prevent dieback. Deadwood can be pruned out any time during the year. Japanese witch hazel should not be pruned in the fall, as it encourages tender growth that is prone to winter damage.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Japanese witch hazel typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and April.

Starts Flowering

Japanese witch hazel typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and April.

Hardiness Map