Overview
Hamamelis japonica var. japonica is a bushy shrubs in the genus Hamamelis, part of the Hamamelidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Hamamelis japonica var. japonica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, low maintenance and flower borders and beds.
About
Hamamelis japonica var. japonica is a bushy deciduous shrub belonging to the Hamamelis genus, known for its broadly ovate or rounded foliage that may display vibrant autumn colours. This cultivar produces fragrant flowers with four narrow petals, which appear on bare branches in late winter and early spring. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers a sheltered aspect with fertile, well-drained soil, including clay, loam, or sand types with acid to neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is suitable for cottage and informal gardens, as well as flower borders and beds, offering interest through spring and summer.
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
- North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Hamamelis japonica var. japonica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Hamamelis japonica var. japonica
- Propagation
- Simple layering, Grafting, Chip budding
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to coral spot, honey fungus, phytophthora root rot, powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Hamamelis japonica var. japonica?
Hamamelis japonica var. japonica prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Hamamelis japonica var. japonica need?
Hamamelis japonica var. japonica 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.
Is Hamamelis japonica var. japonica hardy in the UK?
Hamamelis japonica var. japonica has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Hamamelis japonica var. japonica?
Simple layering, Grafting, Chip budding.
More in the Hamamelis genus
- Hamamelis virginiana 'Champlin's Red'
- Hamamelis x intermedia 'Cyrille'

- Hamamelis x intermedia 'Early Bird'

- Hamamelis x intermedia 'Evi'

- Hamamelis x intermedia 'Georges'

- Hamamelis japonica var. obtusata f. flavopurpurascens