Hamamelis mollis

Chinese Witch Hazel is a deciduous, flowering shrub native to western China. Although Chinese Witch Hazel is not as hardy as other Hamamelis spp., it is the most fragrant witch hazel with flowers that appear in January through March. It can be grown as a large shrub or small tree and should be pruned in spring after flowering to control the size and shape. When pruning, keep in mind that flowers will appear on old growth. The genus name comes from the Greek hama for "at same time" and melon meaning apple in reference to the occurrence of both fruit and flowers at the same time on this shrub. The species name means soft with soft hairs.

Chinese Witch Hazel prefers moist, acidic, well drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and tolerates clay soils as long as the drainage is good. However, it does best with consistent moisture and may suffer from leaf scorch in hot, dry summers. It spreads by root suckers which should be pruned to restrain colonization.

Quick ID Hints:

• Flowers in axillary clusters, 4 ligulate petals
• Deciduous shrub to small tree with zig-zag twigs
• Leaf buds and young twigs tomentose
• Native form flowers in late fall to early winter. Other species flower in late winter.
• Leaves turn yellow in fall. 

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No serious pests. Caterpillars and beetles may chew on the leaves.