When most of the garden has settled into winter dormancy, Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Diane’ steps into the spotlight with a performance that bridges the seasons.
A standout cultivar of witch hazel, ‘Diane’ delivers two spectacular displays; first with fiery autumn foliage, and then with spidery, deep scarlet flowers that begin to unfurl in December, often blooming through to early spring.
This large, deciduous shrub brings elegance and structure to borders, growing to around 2.5 – 4 metres tall and wide over time. In autumn, its broadly oval leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold, rivalling even maples for their intensity. As winter arrives, the bare branches burst into life with narrow, crinkled petals — a rare and welcome sight in the colder months.
‘Diane’ thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, ideally in a sunny or lightly shaded position sheltered from cold winds. It prefers moist, humus-rich conditions and benefits from minimal pruning, making it relatively low-maintenance.
Planted as a specimen or in a winter border with hellebores and evergreens, Hamamelis ‘Diane’ brings beauty, fragrance, and warmth to the garden when it’s needed most.
