Hamamelis intermedia Yamina - Witch Hazel

The Hamamelis x intermedia 'Yamina' is a superb Witch Hazel bush whose foliage changes colour as early as September and reaches its peak in autumn. Like all hybrid witch hazels, it also offers a fragrant winter flowering. Its flowering is abundant, composed of small spider-shaped yellow flowers. Over time, it forms a beautiful spreading bush that stands out in the garden. In cool, rich, and acidic soil, it is one of the best bushes for autumn and late winter to be planted in borders or as a specimen plant.

The Hamamelis x intermedia is a hybrid resulting from the cross-breeding between the Hamamelis japonica and H. mollis, respectively native to Japan and China. These plants belong to the Hamamelidaceae family, among which we find the Loropetalum, the Liquidambars, and the Persian Ironwood, which invariably adorn themselves with fantastic autumn foliage colours.

The Hamamelis x intermedia 'Yamina' is a recent horticultural variety. It is a moderately fast-growing bush with a spreading habit. At age 10, it will reach approximately 1.60 m (5ft) in all directions. Ultimately, it can grow up to 3.50 m (11ft) in all directions under optimal conditions. This bush develops a few main branches that bear spreading secondary lateral branches, almost horizontally (slightly V-shaped). Its deciduous foliage is composed of ovate leaves, initially greenish-yellow with bronze reflections in spring, becoming green in early summer. If it receives enough sunlight, the foliage begins to color in brownish-purple and bronze in late summer. Then it turns successively violet, buttery yellow, and blood red before falling, filling the garden with warm hues. Its fragrant flowers are abundant on the bare branches between January and March, depending on the climate. They measure approximately 2 cm (1in) in length and are composed of numerous elongated and curiously wrinkled yellow petals, almost claw-like, like witch fingers. At the base of the flower, a burgundy calyx is observed. This nectariferous flowering lasts 5 to 7 weeks and then gives way to leaves. The branches of Witch Hazels are somewhat fragile, so they need to be sheltered from prevailing winds. It is also important to leave space for their shallow roots, which do not tolerate competition. Very hardy (approximately -25°C (1°F)), Witch Hazel is quite demanding: it does not tolerate limestone, poor soils, waterlogged soils in winter, or summer drought.

Plant this Hamamelis intermedia 'Yamina' in non-scorching sunlight: on the edge of a woodland, under large trees, or in the background of a border composed of Heucheras, Tiarellas, and Hostas, for example. It will also pair well with Daphnes, Mountain Laurels (Kalmia), and Rhododendrons. It will also be magnificent alongside evergreen bushes such as autumn camellias or the Chimonanthus praecox. You can also surround it with a few hellebores.