Winter Hazel (Corylopsis Sinensis)

Winter Hazel

Features and Characteristics

Corylopsis sinensis, commonly called Chinese or fragrant winter hazel, is a spreading, multi-stemmed shrub native to western China. It typically grows 10-15’ tall with an equal spread and features drooping clusters (racemes to 1-2” long) of mildly fragrant yellow-green flowers with orange anthers in early spring. Flower stamens are shorter than the petals. Fruits are pubescent capsules each containing two small seeds. Obovate, pointed, dark green leaves (to 4” long) are glaucous beneath. Leaves turn variable but usually unexceptional shades of yellow in fall. Synonymous with Corylopsis willmottiae. Corylopsis is closely related to and in the same family as witch hazel (Hamamelis).

Genus name comes from the Greek words korylos meaning hazel and opsis meaning like for leaf resemblance to Corylus.

Specific epithet means Chinese.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in acidic, organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Tolerates average garden soils, but not unamended heavy clays. Plant may not be reliably winter hardy throughout the St. Louis area where it should be sited in a sheltered location. Flower buds are susceptible to damage from early spring frosts.

Winter Hazel (Corylopsis Sinensis) Requirements

Hardiness zone	6 - 8
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

As is the case with forsythia and witch hazel, winter hazel provides late winter to early spring bloom in the landscape. Shrub borders or woodland gardens.

Winter Hazel (Corylopsis Sinensis) Details

Common name	Winter Hazel
Botanical name	Corylopsis Sinensis
Plant type	Deciduous Shrub
Family	Hamamelidaceae
Hardiness zone	6 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Pale Yellow With Orange Anthers
Flowering period	March - April
Height	10 - 15 Ft.
Width	10 - 15 Ft.