Winter hazel (Corylopsis) is a beautiful shrub that adds a touch of brightness to the winter landscape. While most deciduous shrubs lose their leaves during the colder months, winter hazel is considered to be evergreen to semi-evergreen. This means that it retains most of its foliage during the winter, providing some color and interest when other plants are dormant.
The distinguishing feature of winter hazel is its bright yellow flowers. These delicate blossoms appear in late winter or early spring, before the leaves emerge. The flowers hang in clusters, creating a stunning display against the bare branches. The vibrant yellow color is a welcome sight after the dullness of winter, and it can brighten up any garden or landscape.
One of the reasons why winter hazel is considered evergreen is because it does not completely shed its leaves during the winter. Instead, it may retain a portion of its foliage, giving it a semi-evergreen nature. This is particularly true for certain cultivars or varieties of winter hazel. However, it’s important to note that not all winter hazel plants are fully evergreen. Some varieties may lose more leaves than others, resulting in a more deciduous appearance during the winter months.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of growing a winter hazel in my own garden. I chose a cultivar that was known for retaining its leaves during the winter, as I wanted to enjoy its beauty year-round. Even though the leaves did turn slightly yellow and drop off, the majority of the foliage remained intact, providing a lush and green backdrop to my winter garden.
It’s worth mentioning that winter hazel is not as commonly seen as other evergreen shrubs, such as hollies or boxwoods. However, its unique charm and early flowering make it a worthwhile addition to any garden. If you’re looking to add some interest to your winter landscape and enjoy the cheerful yellow blooms, winter hazel could be a great choice.
Winter hazel is considered to be evergreen to semi-evergreen. While it may not retain all of its leaves during the winter, it does keep a significant portion of its foliage, providing some color and vibrancy during the colder months. Its bright yellow flowers are a delightful sight and can bring cheer to any garden or landscape.
