Fragrant Winter Hazel Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana
ABOUT
Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana, commonly known as the fragrant winter hazel, is a deciduous shrub that is noted for its striking appearance, especially during the blooming season. The fragrant winter hazel produces hanging clusters of fragrant, pale yellow flowers that appear in early spring before the foliage emerges, creating a captivating display that draws the eye. These flowers are small, with each individual blossom consisting of four to five narrow, strap-shaped petals. They hang in tassel-like racemes, which gracefully adorn the bare stems. The leaves of fragrant winter hazel are equally attractive. They are ovate to oblong with serrated margins, emerging just as the flowering season begins. When they first appear, the leaves are a lovely shade of soft yellow-green and are covered with a fine, downy hair, giving them a slightly fuzzy texture. As the season progresses, they mature into a rich green color, offering pleasant foliage throughout the summer. In autumn, the leaves change once again, displaying a showy array of colors ranging from yellow to purplish-red before falling off as part of the plant's preparation for winter dormancy. The bark of the fragrant winter hazel is smooth and has a greyish to light brown color which contrasts nicely with the plant’s bright foliage and flowers. Overall, the appearance of fragrant winter hazel throughout the seasons provides varying interests – from the charming flowers that herald the beginning of spring to the delightful foliage that adds texture and color to the garden landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hamamelidaceae
Synonyms
Fragrant Winter-Hazel, Goto Winter Hazel, Goto Fragrant Winter Hazel
Common names
Corylopsis gotoana.
ToxicityTo humans
Winter Hazel is generally not known to be a toxic plant to humans. There is no significant evidence indicating that Winter Hazel causes poisoning if ingested. However, as with many plants, sensitivity varies among individuals, and it is always wise to exercise caution and avoid consuming parts of ornamental plants not known to be edible.
To pets
Winter Hazel is not commonly listed among plants that are toxic to pets. There appears to be no widespread documentation suggesting that ingestion of Winter Hazel poses a significant risk of poisoning to pets such as dogs and cats. Nevertheless, it's important to be cautious with pets and plants, since individual animals might have sensitivities or allergies, and consumption of non-food items can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana, commonly known as Fragrant Winter Hazel, is valued for its decorative appeal, especially due to its pendulous yellow flowers that bloom in early spring.
- Seasonal Interest: This plant adds seasonal interest to gardens, providing a welcome burst of color and fragrance after the winter months.
- Wildlife Habitat: Fragrant Winter Hazel offers habitat and food for various species of wildlife; its flowers are a source of nectar for early-season pollinators such as bees.
- Shade Tolerance: As an understory shrub, it is tolerant of shade, making it suitable for planting under larger trees or in partially shaded areas of the garden.
- Erosion Control: With its bushy growth habit, Fragrant Winter Hazel can help stabilize soil and control erosion on slopes and banks.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, this plant generally requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance landscaping options.
- Drought Resistance: Although it prefers moist conditions, it can tolerate periods of drought, thereby reducing the need for frequent watering once established.
- Urban Tolerant: It is capable of withstanding urban pollution and is thus suitable for city gardens and streetscapes.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike some ornamental plants, Fragrant Winter Hazel is not known to be invasive, so it's less likely to disrupt local ecosystems.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Craft Material - The flexible branches of Winter Hazel can be used in basket weaving or as natural ties in garden trellises.
- Perfumery - The flowers of Winter Hazel emit a sweet fragrance that can be captured and used as a base note in perfumes.
- Dye Production - The bark and leaves of Winter Hazel may be used to create natural dyes for textiles.
- Ornamental Carving - The wood of Winter Hazel can be used for ornamental carvings or inlays in fine woodwork due to its fine grain.
- Culinary Garnish - While not commonly consumed, the flowers of Winter Hazel can be used as an edible garnish for their aesthetic appeal.
- Photography - Winter Hazel, with its picturesque blossoms, is often used as a subject in botanical and landscape photography.
- Floral Arrangements - The aesthetic branches and early spring flowers can be used as part of cut flower arrangements or decorations.
- Education - Winter Hazel can serve as a living specimen for horticultural students studying early spring-flowering plants.
- Cultural Symbolism - In some cultures, Winter Hazel may symbolize the arrival of spring and be used in cultural festivals or artwork.
- Winter Interests - In gardens, Winter Hazel can provide visual interest during the dull winter months.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Fragrant Winter Hazel is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Fragrant Winter Hazel is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Early Spring Beauty: Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana, commonly known as Fragrant Winterhazel, blooms in early spring, symbolizing rebirth and new beginnings.
- Renewal: The fresh green foliage of the Fragrant Winterhazel represents renewal and the refreshing of the spirit, much like the fresh start nature gets each spring.
- Fragrance: Known for its sweet scent, the Fragrant Winterhazel suggests the presence of beauty in our lives and can symbolize an attraction to the sweet things in life.
- Delicacy: Its delicate yellow flowers can symbolize fragility and the appreciation of fleeting moments of beauty.
- Purity: The bright and clean color of its flowers can be associated with purity and innocence.
WaterThe Fragrant Winter Hazel should be watered deeply and allowed to partly dry out between waterings. It is best to water the plant with approximately one gallon per square foot every week during active growth in the spring and summer. Reduce the frequency to every two to three weeks during the dormant fall and winter months, always checking the soil moisture before adding water to prevent overwatering.
LightFragrant Winter Hazel thrives in partial shade to full sun. It prefers a spot that offers morning sunlight and protection from the intense heat of the afternoon sun, which may scorch the leaves. The ideal location is under the light canopy of taller trees or on the east or north side of a building.
TemperatureFor Fragrant Winter Hazel, the ideal growing temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F. The plant can survive temperatures as low as 20°F but should be protected from prolonged exposures below this range. During the active growing season, ensure it is not subjected to temperatures exceeding 85°F for extended periods.
PruningPrune the Fragrant Winter Hazel to remove dead or damaged branches, shape the plant, and encourage healthy growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. It generally requires light pruning every year or two to maintain its desired form or to rejuvenate an older plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Fragrant Winter Hazel (Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana) thrives best in a well-draining, fertile soil mix with high organic matter. An ideal soil mixture for this plant would consist of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or leaf mold, and one part perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingFragrant Winter Hazel should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it has outgrown its current container. Choose a container only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid water retention, which may lead to root rot.
Humidity & MistingFragrant Winter Hazel prefers a moderate to high humidity level, ideally between 40% and 60%. In a home environment, maintaining this humidity can involve using a humidifier or placing the plant on a water-filled pebble tray to increase the moisture in the air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and room humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana, commonly known as Fragrant Winter-hazel, begins with seed germination, typically in the spring, as temperatures rise and sufficient moisture is available. The seedling stage involves the development of roots, a shoot, and the first few leaves, which allow the plant to begin photosynthesis. As the plant matures into the vegetative stage, it grows more leaves, branches, and a stronger root system, establishing itself in its habitat. During the reproductive stage, Fragrant Winter-hazel produces fragrant yellow flowers in late winter or early spring before the leaves fully develop, which is a strategy to attract early-season pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruits, which are dry capsules that release seeds when mature. Finally, the adult plant reaches a dormant phase during colder months and will repeat the flowering and seeding cycle annually, completing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana, commonly known as Fragrant Winter Hazel, is through softwood cuttings. This technique is typically performed in late spring or early summer when new growth is still flexible but has started to mature. A cutting about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) in length is snipped from a healthy branch, and the lower leaves are removed. The cut end is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in a warm place with indirect light until roots have formed, which generally takes several weeks.
