Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Jelena’ (Witch Hazel)

Deservedly one of the best Witch Hazels, Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Jelena’ is a vigorous deciduous shrub of vase-shaped habit with large, warm coppery orange flowers from late winter to early spring. Fragrant, each flower consists of 4 ribbon-like, crinkled, strap-shaped petals with a claret-red calyx. Clustered along the leafless branches, the flowers unfurl their spidery petals on mild days. But on cold days, they curl up again and nearly close up to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. The gracefully ascending branches sport broadly oval green leaves, which turn attractive shades of yellow, orange, and red in fall.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 8-12 ft. tall and wide (240-360 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is best grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Prefers organically rich, moist, acidic soils. Best flowering in full sun. Consistent moisture is best.
• Mass in mixed shrub borders for dramatic winter blooms. Great flowering shrub for cottage gardens, woodland gardens, or as a screen and hedge. Perfect as a specimen plant.
• Keep an eye out for coral spot.
• Deer: Witch hazel is generally considered to be deer-resistant due to its bitter taste and strong scent. However, it is important to note that deer browsing habits can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, availability of other food sources, and the specific population of deer in the area.
• Promptly remove any suckers to prevent spread.
• Prune in spring after flowering to control shape and size.
• Propagate by grafting.
• Hamamelis x intermedia is a hybrid of garden origin between Hamamelis japonica and Hamamelis mollis.