Key features
Final size4m x 4m in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves with autumn colour (deciduous)
PositionFull sun to part shade
Description
Hamamelis ‘Amethyst’ is a large, bushy deciduous shrub that typically reaches a height and spread of around 4m. It features broad green leaves in spring, paired with striking purple-red witch hazel flowers. As autumn arrives, the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow before shedding, followed by a second flowering on bare branches in winter. This shrub offers year-round interest and thrives in moist but well-drained soils, in a position with full sun to partial shade.
AKA: witch hazel ‘Amethyst’, Hamamelis vernalis ‘Brotzman Puple’, Hamamelis vernalis ‘Purple Seedling’, Hamamelis vernalis ‘Amethyst'”
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
