Contents
Description
Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida, commonly known as the Witch Hazel, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Hamamelidaceae. It is a hybrid cross between Hamamelis japonica and Hamamelis mollis, and is native to Japan and China. This shrub has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of up to 4 meters. It blooms in late winter to early spring, producing fragrant, pale yellow flowers that are clustered in groups of 4-8. The foliage of Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida turns a vibrant shade of yellow, orange, or red in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Hamamelidaceae |
| Genus | Hamamelis |
Appearance
Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida has a vase-shaped growth habit with spreading branches that form an open crown. The leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong to obovate in shape. They are dark green in color with a slightly hairy texture on the upper surface and a pale green color on the lower surface. The flowers are yellow and have four narrow petals that are twisted and curled. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open to release the seeds. The bark of the shrub is smooth and grayish-brown, and becomes fissured with age.
Care Guide
Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida is a hardy shrub that requires minimal maintenance, but there are some care tips to keep in mind:
- Water: This shrub prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
- Soil: This shrub prefers acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but there are some issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Control by spraying with insecticidal soap.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Control by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves. Control by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida is native to Japan and China, where it grows in mountainous regions and woodland areas. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida bloom?
A: This shrub blooms in late winter to early spring.
Q: Is Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida easy to care for?
A: Yes, this shrub is relatively low-maintenance and requires minimal care.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida?
A: This shrub prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5.
Q: Can Hamamelis Intermedia Pallida be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this shrub can be grown in containers as long as it is planted in well-draining soil and receives adequate water and nutrients.
Related Plants
- Hamamelis japonica
- Hamamelis mollis
- Hamamelis vernalis
- Hamamelis virginiana
References
- “Hamamelis ×intermedia Pallida.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285749.
- “Witch Hazel.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/2994/hamamelis-intermedia-pallida/details.
- “Hamamelis ×intermedia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 26 Jan. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamamelis_%C3%97intermedia.
