Description
Hamamelis ‘Arnold Promise,’ or the witch hazel as it’s affectionately known, is one of those plants that feels as though it has been stitched into the very fabric of the garden. This deciduous shrub is a winter gem, offering much-needed life and vibrancy during the darker months when the garden can otherwise seem bare and bleak.
As its leaves fall in late autumn, the true beauty of ‘Arnold Promise’ is revealed. By January, the bare branches become adorned with delicate, spidery blooms in a vibrant, sunny yellow. Each flower emits a light, sweet fragrance, a subtle reminder of nature’s resilience even in the coldest weather. It’s a sight that lifts the spirits – those cheerful, crinkled petals glowing like little beacons on frost-bitten mornings.
Hardy and reliable, this shrub isn’t fussy about soil types, provided they are well-drained. It will thrive in full sun or partial shade, though it rewards a sunny position with more abundant blooms. Like all witch hazels, ‘Arnold Promise’ benefits from a sheltered spot where its flowers can avoid the brunt of harsh winds, allowing them to last well into March.
As a feature plant, it’s superb, offering structure and seasonal interest. It works beautifully at the edge of a woodland garden or as part of a mixed border, where its late winter display can take centre stage.
Common Name: Witch Hazel
Latin Name: Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Arnold Promise’
