As a garden lover it is always nice to think about which plants you want. Everybody is familiar with the staples of roses, tulips, marigolds, peonies and the like but, true gardeners are always on the lookout for something different. It might be a plant of a certain colour, a certain shape or fulfil a specific need. When looking for a statement piece there also comes the expectation that it isn't going to be cheap and also there might be a need of specific conditions.
An interesting large plant for consideration is the Chinese witch hazel. It's Ideal for fertile soil but not for acidic conditions, and it doesn't much like chalk but might do well if the area is improved with the addition of organic matter. Hamamelis mollis is a slow-growing deciduous shrub which can grow up to 8m tall but in the UK tend to be around 4 metres at maturity. Shorter varieties are available. It is hardy, highly ornamental and enjoyed for its flowers and scent.
Chinese witch hazel plants aren't overly common, you won't find them in every garden centre and as a grafted slow-growing shrub it is on the expensive side. The price gives you bright spidery flowers with long ribbon like petals which come in a range of excellent colours that can be likened to chillies, citrus and marmalade. The species is a white flower shrub but cultivated varieties such as Ming Dynasty, Blush and Firedance bloom in bold pinks and reds.
One of the delights and benefits of Chinese Witch Hazel is that it is a winter flowering plant. When the garden is looking bare and colour is sparse, witch hazel injects some much welcomed brightness. It makes a good addition to a border close to the house or a pathway where the blossoms and their scent can be appreciated. Take care when choosing though, because if scent is a factor in your decision, you might be surprised to find that the aromatic range extends from heady perfume to drain cleaner. The winter twigs are hardy enough to withstand being cut and used as indoor flower displays. Cut the twigs long to create a display with a sense of drama.
Chinese witch hazel is fairly easy to care for. It needs a bit of TLC in spring with some judicious pruning of poor branches and will benefit from a nice feed of compost or manure.
This shrub is ideal for pretty much any garden with decent soil conditions.
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