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Corylopsis spicata

spike witch hazel

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

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Yellow Red Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
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

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