Contents
Description
Hamamelis Mollis, also known as Chinese witch hazel, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Hamamelidaceae family. It is native to China and can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide. The plant blooms in late winter or early spring, producing clusters of fragrant yellow flowers that resemble a spider. The leaves turn yellow in the fall, providing a beautiful display of color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Hamamelidaceae |
| Genus | Hamamelis |
Appearance
The Hamamelis Mollis has a rounded, spreading growth habit with a dense, twiggy structure. The leaves are broad, with a wavy margin, and they turn yellow in the fall. The flowers are fragrant, with four ribbon-like petals that curl back as they age. They are yellow in color, with red centers. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open to reveal two shiny black seeds.
Care Guide
Hamamelis Mollis prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It requires full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hamamelis Mollis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. To prevent these problems, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
Hamamelis Mollis is native to China and is commonly found in woodland areas and on mountain slopes. It grows best in moist, well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hamamelis Mollis plant?
A: Water your plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: When should I fertilize my Hamamelis Mollis plant?
A: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I prune my Hamamelis Mollis plant?
A: Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hamamelis Mollis?
A: Hamamelis Mollis is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Related Plants
- Hamamelis vernalis
- Hamamelis virginiana
- Hamamelis x intermedia
- Hamamelis japonica
References
- “Hamamelis Mollis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286579.
- “Hamamelis Mollis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11346/hamamelis-mollis/details.
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press, 2011.
