Bewitched by fragrance and flowers

Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Aphrodite’

Hamamelis x intermedia: A Fragrant Addition to Your Garden

Hamamelis x intermedia, commonly known as the witch hazel, is a beautiful and fragrant shrub that is perfect for adding a touch of winter interest to your garden. This deciduous shrub is a hybrid of Hamamelis mollis and Hamamelis japonica, and it combines the best features of both parents.

Growing Hamamelis x intermedia

Hamamelis x intermedia is a relatively easy-to-grow shrub that is tolerant of a wide range of conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is also tolerant of lime, making it a good choice for gardens with alkaline soil.

The Flowers of Hamamelis x intermedia

The flowers of Hamamelis x intermedia are one of the most striking features of the shrub. They are produced in late winter or early spring, and they come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and red. The flowers are also very fragrant, and they fill the air with a sweet, spicy scent.

Using Hamamelis x intermedia in Your Garden

Hamamelis x intermedia is a versatile shrub that can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. It can be planted as a specimen shrub, or it can be used to create a hedge or screen. It is also a good choice for foundation plantings.

My Experience with Hamamelis x intermedia

Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Aphrodite’

I have been growing Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Aphrodite’ in my garden for several years, and I have been very happy with it. It is a beautiful and fragrant shrub that is easy to care for. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a winter-interest shrub for their garden.

Here are some additional tips for growing Hamamelis x intermedia:

  • Plant the shrub in well-drained soil.
  • Water the shrub regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Fertilize the shrub annually with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune the shrub in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.

With a little care, Hamamelis x intermedia will thrive in your garden and provide you with years of enjoyment.

Popular varieties of Hamamelis intermedia



Hamamelis intermedia ‘Arnold Promise’

* Height: 3-4 m (10-13 ft)
* Spread: 3-4 m (10-13 ft)
* Flowers: Yellow, fragrant
* Bloom time: Late winter to early spring

Hamamelis intermedia ‘Diane’

* Height: 2-3 m (6-10 ft)
* Spread: 2-3 m (6-10 ft)
* Flowers: Brick red, fragrant
* Bloom time: Late winter to early spring

Hamamelis intermedia ‘Jelena’

* Height: 2-3 m (6-10 ft)
* Spread: 2-3 m (6-10 ft)
* Flowers: Red, fragrant
* Bloom time: Late winter to early spring

Hamamelis intermedia ‘Pallida’

* Height: 3-4 m (10-13 ft)
* Spread: 3-4 m (10-13 ft)
* Flowers: Pale yellow, fragrant
* Bloom time: Late winter to early spring

Hamamelis intermedia ‘Ruby Glow’

* Height: 2-3 m (6-10 ft)
* Spread: 2-3 m (6-10 ft)
* Flowers: Deep red, fragrant
* Bloom time: Late winter to early spring

Published by Ciaran Burke

I am a gardening enthusiast, a horticulturist, working as Head of Horticulture in Johnstown Garden Centre, and a gardener on my days off.