Related to the witch hazel, this deciduous shrub with an open, spreading habit, produces hanging tassels of fragrant, pale yellow flowers in mid-spring before the leaves appear.

The leaves often have attractive autumn colours. Growing 5m (15ft) x 5m (15m), it prefers a sheltered site in dappled shade as the flowers are prone to frost damage.

It prefers well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil, but will tolerate deep soils over chalk.

Pruning isn't necessary, although you may need to remove unwanted or damaged branches after flowering.