Winter Hazel
corylopsis sinensis
Also known as: ["Chinese Winter Hazel"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to China, known for its fragrant, pale yellow flowers that appear in early spring before the leaves emerge.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Hamamelidaceae |
| Genus: | Corylopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Corylopsis sinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic, organic-rich soil similar to woodland conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years if minimal shaping is needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; prefers bright, indirect light or filtered sunlight for 4–6 hours daily. Avoid direct afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, place near an east-facing window or use sheer curtains to filter light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct sun exposure; provide dappled light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the soil dry out completely, and reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil
well-drained, fertile, slightly acidic loam
pH: Acidic, pH 5.5–6.5.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoids extreme heat above 80°F (27°C).
Protect from frost; avoid hot, direct sun; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with a clean knife.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make angled cuts just above a bud or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage flowering. Light pruning after flowering is ideal.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape lightly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil mix, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add compost, peat moss, or leaf mold to enhance organic matter and acidity. Incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or damage if below 20°F (-7°C).
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location. Mulch around the base to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to keep soil cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute if liquid; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest Corylopsis sinensis seeds or bark. The effects are typically not severe but warrant attention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Corylopsis sinensis seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxicity is not life-threatening but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCorylopsis sinensis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Corylopsis sinensis bloom?
A: It blooms in early spring, typically before the leaves emerge.
Q: Is Corylopsis sinensis suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, but it requires adequate space and regular care.
Q: Does Corylopsis sinensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hamamelidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
