Diane Witch Hazel Shrub

Diane is a broad-crowned, deciduous hybrid witch hazel valued for deep orange-red flowers that open on bare branches in mid to late winter. Its oval leaves turn yellow and red in autumn, extending the seasonal display after flowering. [The RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/99236/hamamelis-%C3%97-intermedia-diane/details) identifies the selection and describes its flower colour and seasonal foliage. ## Form and placement This cultivar matures to roughly 8–13 feet tall and wide, with an open, spreading crown. Site it as a specimen where the winter flowers can be seen, or underplant it with early bulbs. Full sun or light shade suits witch hazels; a sheltered position helps protect winter flower buds from cold winds. They prefer well-drained neutral to acidic soil and do poorly in alkaline conditions. [RHS growing guidance](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/witch-hazel) covers the genus’s siting and soil preferences. ## Seasonal interest The strap-like flowers bring colour and fragrance to the dormant garden, while the autumn foliage contributes a second display. The shrub is slow-growing and eventually broad, so allow room for the mature crown rather than treating it as a narrow screen. ## Maintenance Keep the root zone from drying during establishment and prolonged dry spells, while maintaining drainage. Avoid deep shade, which can reduce flowering, and avoid alkaline soil. Check the mature crown before planting so the shrub can develop its natural spreading shape.