Species Ozark witch hazel
orange to burgundy, spider-like flower with creamy yellow stamens and burgundy sepal

Ozark witch hazel

Hamamelis vernalis 'Washington Park'

The Ozark Witch Hazel (Hamamelis vernalis 'Washington Park') is an amazing shrub for any garden. Its late winter-blooming, fragrant yellow flowers, and bright fall foliage, make it a standout in the garden. Not to mention, it is very hardy and has low maintenance needs, which makes it an ideal choice for gardeners of any experience level. It is a great addition to gardens for providing wildlife nutrition and its clusters of bright-colored berries in the fall. Ozark Witch Hazel also provides winter interest with its Winter Bark that turns to an orangish-copper hue throughout the months. It really is an exceptional plant for adding late season interest and beauty to any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Reddish-purple Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

watering

Ozark witch hazel plants will need watering once a week, providing 1-2 inches of water each time. This may vary if the weather is especially hot or in times of drought. Make sure the soil around the plants does not become bone dry. Water the plant at the root base, allowing the water to distribute evenly to the rest of the plant as well. This plant is extremely hardy and should not be overwatered, as it can rot. In general, the Ozark witch hazel does not need much fertilizing to thrive, apart from a light dose of compost every few months.

sunlight

Ozark witch hazel (Hamamelis vernalis 'Washington Park') requires sunlight for healthy growth, but should be kept in an area that offers dappled shade. This plant does best when receiving between 4 and 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If planted in an area that receives full sun, be sure to water more often and to protect the plant from the scorching midday sun. Placing the plant in an area that receives afternoon shade when the direct sun is strongest, such as a north or east facing spot, is the ideal situation.

pruning

Ozark witch hazel should be pruned in late winter or early spring, when the plant is still dormant. It should be pruned judiciously, cutting back no more than 1 third of the total stems each year. This helps to ensure that the flowers are not removed along with the excess stems. When pruning, look for deadwood and thin out the center of the plant as needed. Also prune away any stems that are crossing over or growing into 1 another, as they can become entangled and cause future problems.

Season

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

Hamamelis vernalis 'Washington Park' typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and March.

Starts Flowering

Hamamelis vernalis 'Washington Park' typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and March.

Hardiness Map