Fothergilla gardenii, also known by the common names witch alder,[1]dwarf fothergilla,[2]American wych hazel,[3]pocosin witchalder, and dwarf witchalder[citation needed] is a deciduous shrub in the Hamamelidaceae family. It is one of two species in the genus Fothergilla.[1][2]
Height/spread: Max height and spread is 0.9m (3ft)[2] to 1m (3ft).[1]
Leaves: Dark green, alternate leaves emerge in spring[1] and range in shape from oval[1][2] to obovate.[1] Sizes up to 6cm (2.5in) in length,[1] with irregularly[2] toothed margins.[1][2] Striking autumn colors, including bright red,[1] crimson,[2] orange, and yellow.[1][2]
Inflorescences: Terminal cylindrical[1] spikes[1][2] to 4cm (1.5in) are borne in spring,[1] before the leaves emerge.[1][2]
Native to the southeastern USA,[1][2] from North Carolina to Alabama.[2]
Cultivation
Hardiness: Fully hardy,[1] to -29°C (-20°F).[2] USDA zones 5-9.[2]
Cultivation: Prefers full sun[1][2] or partial shade[1] and humus-rich, well-drained soil which is kept moist.[1][2] Full sun gives the best autumn color.[2] Does well in woodland gardens or shrub borders.[1]
Propagation:
Seed Sow seed outdoors in a cold frame or seedbed in autumn or winter. Seed typically germinates the second spring after sowing.[1] Fresh seed works best.[2]
Cuttings Take softwood cuttings in summer[1][2] and root them in a mist unit.[1]
Thomas G. Ranney and Nathan P. Lynch, Clarifying Taxonomy and Nomenclature of Fothergilla (Hamamelidaceae) Cultivars and Hybrids, HORTSCIENCE 42(3):470–473. 2007.
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