Corylopsis spicata

RHS Plant Profile
spike witch hazel
Shrubs

A medium, deciduous shrub of open, spreading habit, to 2m in height and 3m wide. The broadly ovate leaves are bristled with toothed edges, blue-green underneath and bight-green above. Leaf buds change from dark-red to dark green as the leaves emerge. Fragrant racemes,10 to 15cm long, of pale yellow flowers and red anthers, are borne on bare stems in spring

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Hamamelidaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Corylopsis are deciduous shrubs or small trees, with simple, toothed leaves and nodding racemes of small, usually fragrant, bell-shaped pale yellow flowers in early spring
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
China & S Japan

How to Grow

Cultivation

Will grow in acidic soil in a shady position but may need some protection as late frosts can damage the flowers

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers in autumn in an open frame, softwood cuttings in summer or layering in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 1 immediately after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility