When it comes to witch hazel trees, there are several species and cultivars to choose from. However, based on our trials and observations, two stand out as having great potential for landscaping purposes: ‘Little Suzie’ and ‘Harvest Moon’.
‘Little Suzie’ is a fantastic option for those looking for a witch hazel tree with an abundance of flowers. This cultivar boasts a compact frame, which makes it suitable for smaller gardens or tight spaces. The compact size also means that it is easier to maintain and prune if necessary. One of the main highlights of ‘Little Suzie’ is its profusion of flowers. The tree is adorned with numerous blooms, creating a stunning visual display. These flowers are typically a vibrant yellow color and have a delicate, sweet fragrance that adds to their appeal. Imagine having a compact witch hazel tree covered in a sea of beautiful yellow flowers – it’s truly a treat for the eyes and the senses!
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a witch hazel tree that offers a unique seasonal display, ‘Harvest Moon’ is an excellent choice. This particular cultivar has the remarkable ability to drop its leaves just before its flowers open in the fall. This means that when the tree is in bloom, its lemon yellow flowers are showcased against a backdrop of bare branches, creating a striking contrast. This feature adds a touch of drama and elegance to any landscape. Additionally, the fall blooming period of ‘Harvest Moon’ allows it to stand out among other trees that may be winding down for the season. It brings a burst of color and life just when other plants may be fading away.
Both ‘Little Suzie’ and ‘Harvest Moon’ offer their own unique advantages and visual appeal. Whether you prefer an abundance of flowers on a compact frame or a captivating seasonal display, these cultivars have a lot to offer for your landscaping needs.
In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of incorporating witch hazel trees into various landscape designs. I found that ‘Little Suzie’ works exceptionally well as a focal point in smaller gardens or as an understory tree in larger landscapes. Its compact size allows it to fit seamlessly into different design styles, whether it be a formal garden or a more naturalistic setting.
Meanwhile, ‘Harvest Moon’ made a stunning addition to a client’s fall-themed garden. Its unique leaf-drop feature added an unexpected element to the landscape, creating a sense of anticipation for the upcoming bloom. The lemon yellow flowers stood out brilliantly against the bare branches, attracting attention and admiration from all who saw it.
When it comes to choosing the best witch hazel tree for your landscape, ‘Little Suzie’ and ‘Harvest Moon’ are both excellent options. ‘Little Suzie’ offers an abundance of flowers on a compact frame, while ‘Harvest Moon’ captivates with its leaf-drop and fall blooming period. Consider your space, design preferences, and the desired impact you want to create in your landscape when making your choice.
