Hamamelis japonica var. flavopurpurescens

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Key characteristics

Family: Hamamelidaceae
Height: Up to 10 feet
Width: 8 to 10 feet
Flower color: Yellow to reddish hues with a purplish base
Foliage color: Dark green in summer, turning yellow in autumn
Bloom time: January - March
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Prefers moist, well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning after flowering if necessary
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 8
Wildlife: Attracts bees

Shrubs

Hamamelis japonica var. flavopurpurescens

Red Japanese Witch Hazel

Hamamelis japonica var. flavopurpurascens is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, blooming in late winter to early spring. Its flowers feature narrow, crinkled petals that range from yellow to reddish hues, often with a purplish tint at the base, and emit a mild fragrance. These blossoms appear on bare branches, providing visual interest during the dormant season. The foliage consists of broad, ovate leaves that transition to vibrant yellow or orange shades in autumn.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Prefers moist, well-drained soil

Bloom time

January - March

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Fragrant Gardens
Winter Interest
Specimen Plants

Companion plants

Gaura · Weigela · Salvia · Baptisia · Lilies · Mexican feather grass

Design tip

The unusual blend of yellow, red, and purplish flowers deserves a prominent winter location. Give this witch hazel room to develop its broad form, allowing the colorful blooms to become a focal point when surrounding deciduous plants are bare.