Winter colour

AS winter progresses, many bare twig-like branches appear to lie dormant. On closer inspection of Hamamelis - commonly known as witch hazel – however, a pinprick of colour can be seen at the tip of each bud. Hamamelis unfurls its pretty petals during the mild temperatures and lengthening daylight levels. This mid-winter flower become increasingly fragrant as temperatures rise, becoming a potent lure for any early pollinators.

Hamamelis flowers are always subtle in colour and very delicate in form. If they were larger and bolder blooms, the winter weather would certainly damage and batter them. These delicate ribbon-like flowers are among the first winter twigs to flower. Their branching shrubby framework supports the flowers in various shades of pale yellow, gold, orange, soft brown and warm reds. However cold the weather may be, these resilient flowering streamer-like strands bring a splash of colour to the garden at a bleak time of year.

One of the strongest and sweetest fragrances belongs to Hamamelis ‘Pallida’. This has a bright sulphur-yellow flower illuminating the streamside woodland edge at Harlow Carr on the darkest of winter days. Along our winter walk at Harlow Carr, we have a great selection of Hamamelis. It is a fabulous winter flowering shrub and looks stunning when mixed with the vibrant stems of the dogwoods. One of my favourites is Hamamelis ‘Aurora’ which is a good performer with large orange/peach ribbon strands and a strong perfume.

Hamamelis loves a humus-rich soil. They are fully hardy and the flowers are resistant to the frost. Allow plenty of space and light around them. Give them as much light as possible as this will help with the bud formation and development during the summer months, ready for the winter display; a witch hazel in deep shade will set fewer or no flowers. It is also important to water your witch hazel in summer during dry periods when it is young as this too helps with establishing new flowers. Mulching in late winter or early spring will also help to conserve water.

Winter bulbs are very charming and cheerful and help to provide extra colour. They are a delight to see after the cold dark wet winter months. Winter aconites, crocus and small Iris reticulata complement the flowers of Hamamelis. This shrub also looks good under-planted with snowdrops or early daffodils such as the short, stout bright yellow cupped Narcissus ‘Jet Fire’. Bulbs give more impact when planted in a concentrated area than spread more thinly. These bulbs can all be woven through hellebores and mixed with pulmonarias too. The rich shades of the witch hazel mix very happily with hellebores, particularly the orientalis species. They will not hamper or swamp your Hamamelis in any way because they have a compact habit, extending the season’s interest into late winter and early spring.

Hamamelis have the extra advantage of great autumn colour during the fall. When buying a Hamamelis, it’s important to consider the shape and look for a well-balanced plant with a good branching framework. However, be patient as they are relatively slow growing.

Jobs for the week

Cut back fallen and slimy herbaceous plants

Winter prune Buddleia

Begin topping up raised beds with extra soil

Check trees and shrubs for wind rock

DIARY DATES

January 30 to February 29: Bath House Gallery – New Year Showcase

See and buy work by talented local artists and makers, from wall art, photography and textiles to woodwork and willow work. Normal garden admission.

Friday, February 12, 10am to 12.30pm: Garden Walk – Plants for spring pruning

To prune or not to prune? That is the question. Join Harlow Carr gardener, Russell Watkins and learn about the plants that will be ready for a spring prune to ensure you get a head start in the garden this year. There’s a chance to learn pruning techniques for key seasonal plants including buddleja, hydrangea, willow and witch hazel. RHS members £26, non-members £34. Call 020-3176-5830 to book your place.