Corylopsis spicata

Corylopsis spicata is a bush with a spreading habit, producing delicate clusters of bright yellow flowers with reddish-purple anthers, trailing and fragrant and blooming in late winter before the foliage.

Originally from Japan, the Corylopsis or false hazel is a small hardy bush that develops a spreading habit of 2m (6 ft 7 in) in height. Its alternate, ovate, deciduous leaves are 4 to 10 cm (1.6 to 3.9 in) long and dark green, turning golden in autumn. The bright yellow flowers with reddish-purple anthers, 8 to 12 cm (3.1 to 4.7 in) long, and with a strong fragrance, often appear before the foliage in pendulous clusters.

Corylopsis spicata grows in rich, moist, well-drained, acidic, and humus-rich soil, in semi-shaded or lightly shaded positions, sheltered from cold winds. Water regularly in the first year and mulch to keep the soil moist in summer. Limit pruning to shaping after flowering. The flowers are sensitive to frost.

Corylopsis spicata can be planted individually or in flower beds, in association with early bulbs or azaleas, and rhododendrons.