Hamamelis mollis 'Pallida'

'Pallida' Witchhazel

Hamamelis mollis ‘Pallida’ is a deciduous shrub valued for its large, fragrant, pale yellow winter flowers and strong garden presence. Broad green leaves emerge in spring, create a dense canopy through summer, and turn rich yellow in fall, while clusters of long, ribbon-like flowers appear in mid to late winter on bare branches, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. Its early bloom time and scent make it a standout in winter landscapes.

Type: Deciduous shrub

Mature Size:
Width: 10–15 ft
Height: 10–15 ft
(10-year size: approx. 6–10 ft tall × 5–8 ft wide)

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Form: Upright to spreading, vase-shaped
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best flowering in sun)
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture

Wildlife: Provides early-season nectar for pollinators


Features & Landscape Uses


Large, fragrant pale yellow flowers in winter



Strong scent adds sensory interest



Reliable fall color



Excellent specimen or woodland shrub




Care
Plant in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Performs best in full sun for maximum flowering but tolerates partial shade. Prune after flowering if needed. Mulch to maintain soil moisture and cool roots. Generally low-maintenance and pest-resistant.

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

10-15'

Width

10-15'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Late Winter

Leaf color

Olive Drab

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Mass Planting, Specimen

Shape

Upright, Vase Shaped

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No