Hamamelis x vernalis 'Amethyst' - 

Amethyst is one of the more striking witch hazel that we have seen. It has purple red blooms that appear in the mid-winter to early spring when the rest of your garden is sleeping. The button-like blooms on Amethyst will open up and unfurl ribbons of red/purple blooms that smell like mild citrus with hints of spice. For us, these blooms herald the last days of winter. We know when we see and smell them that our grey snowy landscape will soon be alight with the sounds and colors of spring. 

The origins of Amethyst are a little unclear, but it is believed to be a vernalis hybrid as a result it tops out at 8-10 ft. tall and 10-15 ft. wide. It is a very hardy plant and has few problems with disease. Witch hazel is an under-appreciated plant in the United States, but most homes in Europe, particularly Germany, have at least one witch hazel in the garden. It grows best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, but can tolerate some clay.

Full sun to part shade

Zones 5-8