Diane witchhazel (Hamamelis xintermedia ‘Diane’ a hybrid of Hamamelis japonica and H. mollis)

By Debra Knapke

Depending on the weather, the hybrid witchhazels may be flowering right now.  This plant blooms in winter after a brief warming period which means they can bloom anytime from mid-January to March.  Watch for signs of swelling buds. And, make sure you go out and breathe in the spicy scent, once the flowers have fully opened.  A wonderful way to battle the winter blues!  If you can’t wait for the blooms in the garden, cut several branches and bring them inside to force blooms.