Hamamelis intermedia Diane - Witch Hazel

Hamamelis intermedia 'Diane', often named the Witch Hazel, is a hardy bush with very distinctive flowering which appears as early as December, when the garden and flower beds are at rest. It brightens up the season with its garnet red filaments gathered in clusters on the bare stems. Its deciduous foliage also guarantees a spectacle in autumn, turning yellow and red. This beautiful variety has been rewarded with the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Hamamelis is a bush that appreciates acidic soil with a tendency to be moist (it is best to avoid drying winds). It thrives in the sun, if it is not too scorching. Otherwise, a semi-shaded exposure is recommended (the flowering will be a bit less showy). Its slow growth allows it to be grown in a container when it is still young. You can thus enjoy its magnificent colours on the terrace or near entrances. In the long term (after about ten years in open ground), it can reach a size of 3 to 4m (10 to13ft). Its rounded and spreading habit fits well in hedges, but also forms beautiful centres to flower beds. It has oval, wide leaves that are a beautiful light green when young. They are also marked by raised veins that give them a crinkled appearance (like hazelnut trees). Later on, they spread out and take on different colours: medium green in summer, then yellow, brick, copper... as the days shorten. This is enhanced by being placed near evergreens to offer a varied palette. It flowers in winter which is its main attraction, bringing a touch of refinement and (apparent) fragility with small bouquets of red flowers on its still leafless stems. Composed of very narrow ribbons, 2-3cm (0.8 - 1.2in) long, gathered and tousled, it is very unique. To showcase it, several options are available to you: against the light, its flowers capture the sun through the dew and frost: in front of evergreen foliage, this pretty ruby hue stands out more easily.

Essential for brightening hedges or flower beds in autumn and winter, Hamamelis intermedia 'Diane' will thrive in most regions and does not require much attention. Place it near windows to admire its changing colours in autumn or at the back of the garden to encourage you to go out and witness its early flowering. You can cut some branches to decorate your interior.