Overview

Hamamelis 'Amethyst' is a bushy shrubs in the genus Hamamelis, part of the Hamamelidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Hamamelis 'Amethyst' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden.

About

Hamamelis 'Amethyst' is a sizable deciduous shrub featuring broad, oval leaves that transition to yellow-red hues in the fall. In late winter, its flowers emerge on bare branches, displaying shades of red, purple, and pink.

About the genus

Hamamelis consists of deciduous shrubs featuring broadly ovate or rounded foliage, which may exhibit vibrant colors in autumn. The plants produce fragrant flowers with four narrow petals, ranging from yellow to red, appearing on bare branches during late winter and early spring, or occasionally in autumn.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Hamamelis

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing, North-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Hamamelis 'Amethyst' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Hamamelis 'Amethyst'

Cultivation
Best in an open, sunny spot, avoiding exposed or windy positions, with well-drained, humus-rich, acid or neutral soil. See hamamelis cultivation
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by simple layering of suitable shoots in spring, by grafting in late winter or by chip budding in late summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to coral spot, honey fungus, phytophthora root rot and powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Hamamelis 'Amethyst'?

Best in an open, sunny spot, avoiding exposed or windy positions, with well-drained, humus-rich, acid or neutral soil. See hamamelis cultivation.

Where is the best place to plant Hamamelis 'Amethyst'?

Hamamelis 'Amethyst' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Hamamelis 'Amethyst' need?

Hamamelis 'Amethyst' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

How do I prune Hamamelis 'Amethyst'?

Pruning group 1.

How big does Hamamelis 'Amethyst' grow?

Hamamelis 'Amethyst' reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 2.5-4 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.

Is Hamamelis 'Amethyst' hardy in the UK?

Hamamelis 'Amethyst' has a UK hardiness rating of H5.

How do I propagate Hamamelis 'Amethyst'?

Propagate by simple layering of suitable shoots in spring, by grafting in late winter or by chip budding in late summer.