Witch Hazels (royal Horticultural Society Plant Collector Guide, Rhs/timber Press Plant Collector Guides)

Once discovered, witch hazels capture the hearts of gardeners who rank them among the best of all winter-flowering shrubs. Shrugging off several degrees of frost and a heavy weight of snow, their distinctive flowers held on bare branches cannot fail to light up a garden in the depths of winter. Yet, despite their attributes, only a small number are widely grown outside the gardens of enthusiasts. This book promises to change all that by turning the spotlight on these magical shrubs, highlighting their diversity and providing practical, comparative information that will thrill enthusiast and newcomer alike. The book starts with an introduction to the genus followed by detailed descriptions of the four species and their hybrids. These will be of immense value to gardeners as they consider distinguishing features and work out which will perform best for them. The book further aids identification by noting how local conditions can significantly affect plant characteristics including rate of growth, size of plant, leaf retention, and flower color. Cultural requirements and hardiness tolerance are clearly outlined, further ensuring success in the garden. This is the first attempt to authenticate and describe all known selections, varieties, and species in one text. It will be an invaluable resource for gardeners and collectors for years to come.