Witch hazels are winter-flowering small trees or shrubs. Their fragrant flowers range in colour from yellow to red. The leaves turn orange and yellow in Autumn. The ultimate size depends on the variety chosen (as does the flower colour) but in 10 to 20 years they can reach between 2.5m and 4m.
No pruning is needed but if you do have to remove a branch it is best done in the late Winter or early Spring.
They like an acid or neutral soil so not for those on chalk unless you have deep soil with lots of organic matter in it. Witch hazels do not like water-logged ground so ensure good drainage. Once established they are relatively drought tolerant although extreme dry periods can affect flowering.
Grow in a sheltered spot that is protected from cold winds. They prefer partial shade but can survive in full sun although you may need to provide some protection in hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorch.
