Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Hamamelis vernalis 'Christmas Cheer'
Christmas Cheer Ozark Witch Hazel
- Family
- Hamamelidaceae
- Height
- 6 to 10 feet
- Width
- 10 to 15 feet
- Flower color
- Orange-red with reddish-purple calyx
- Foliage color
- Medium to dark green
- Bloom time
- Late winter, often around Christmas
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate; prefers moist, well-drained soil
- Maintenance
- Low; prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and butterflies
About this plant
Hamamelis vernalis 'Christmas Cheer' is a deciduous shrub that blooms from late fall into early winter, typically around Christmas time. It produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers with reddish petals and a yellow center, adding a touch of color and fragrance to the winter landscape. In autumn, its deep green leaves turn bright yellow, providing additional seasonal interest.
This cultivar is a selection of the Ozark witch-hazel (Hamamelis vernalis), native to the Ozark Plateau in central North America. 'Christmas Cheer' is noted for its earlier bloom and intense fragrance, making it a popular choice for adding winter interest to gardens.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Pathways & Walkways · Winter Interest · Woodland Gardens
Companion plants
Hebe · Flowering quince · Crocus · Matilija poppy · Mallow · Sweet William
Design tip
The exceptionally early bloom makes ‘Christmas Cheer’ useful for creating interest around the winter holidays. Position it where the fragrant orange-red flowers can be seen from a window or along a frequently used winter walkway.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Washington Park Arboretum.
