seeds of Hamamelis mollis, Chinese Witch Hazel

Hamamelis mollis, also known as Chinese witch hazel, is a plant species of the family Hamamelidaceae. The plant’s synonym is Hamamelis mollis var. oblongifolia. The plant is indigenous to Eastern and Central China specifically in Zhejiang, Sichuan, Hunan, Hubei, Jiangxi, and Anhui. Hamamelis mollis can grow to a height of 8 metres. The plant’s leaves have a serrated margin, an apex that’s either sharp or rounded and have an oval shape. Each leaf is hairy and has a length of 8 to 15 cm and a width of 6 to 10 cm. The plant’s flowers have yellow petals which occasionally have a red base and grow in clusters. Fruits appear in the form of woody capsules which have a length of 12 mm. The seeds split open 12 months after pollination and release the black seeds therein. Hamamelis mollis is used as an ornamental plant primarily due to its beautiful foliage and fragrant, bright flowers. Growing the plant has the effect of enhancing the aesthetics of a given setting. The plant is, therefore, a common sight in parks, gardens, front yards and areas that are currently undergoing beautification. The plant is also ideal for borders and for its ability to bloom during late winter. Hamamelis mollis is one of the least hardy plant species within its genus. One can, therefore, not expect it to cope with temperature extremes, poor soils, and arid climates. While diseases plaguing the plant aren’t many, it remains susceptible to honey fungus and coral spot. The plant grows well in clay, loam and sandy soils that are well-drained and fertile. Moreover, the soils should also have adequate moisture and be rich in humus. The plant’s propagation is achievable through growing seeds, grafting, layering of shoots, and chip budding. The plant takes between 10 and 20 years before it reaches its maximum height.