One of our favourite plants at this time are the Hamamelis. If you are not bowled over by their unusual spidery flowers, then the exotic spicy scent is bound to stop you in your tracks.
The name Hamamelis is Greek in origin, ‘hama’ meaning together and ‘mela’ meaning fruit. This flower, fruit and the following years leaf buds all appear on the branch at the same time – this is very unusual among trees.
Hailing from North America and East Asia they are natural woodland plants that form large shrubs or small trees. The frost resistant flowers are borne in spidery clusters and appear in January – February. The autumn foliage colour is a stunning mix of orange and yellows held in hypnotic stripes. On the whole the flowers are yellow of varying different shades although some of the more unusual cultivars are a deep sexy red in colour.
Ideal as a specimen plant and also effective planted in groups. Equally happy in woodland gardens and in the back of mixed borders these winter warmers are versatile and showy. Hamamelis are happy in well drained acid to neutral soil in full sun or partial shade. Plant with winter stem colour Cornus for a more dramatic show. With little pruning required Hamamelis really are worth a try. Keep in tip top condition with mulch each autumn.
Fabulous autumn foliage too! All images taken on site in January 2026.
Jelena . Diane Pallida
