Parrotia persica

Common Name:
Persian Witch Hazel

Description:
Parrotia persica, commonly known as Persian Witch Hazel, is a stunning deciduous ornamental tree admired for its exceptional autumn foliage colour, attractive branching structure, and year-round visual appeal. This slow to moderate growing tree develops a broad, rounded canopy with smooth bark that peels attractively with age to reveal patches of grey, cream, olive, and soft brown tones. In spring, small clusters of unusual crimson-red flowers appear along the bare branches before the foliage emerges, adding subtle seasonal interest. The glossy green leaves provide dense shade through summer before transforming into spectacular shades of crimson, orange, gold, and purple during autumn. Persian Witch Hazel performs exceptionally well in Melbourne’s temperate climate, thriving in full sun to part shade with moist, well-drained soil. It is tolerant of urban conditions, seasonal dryness once established, and light frost. This elegant feature tree is highly valued for avenue planting, larger gardens, and parks where its dramatic seasonal colour can be fully appreciated.

Form:

• Tree - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 6–10 m
• Width: 5–8 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Winter
• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Red
• Crimson

Key Attributes:

• Deciduous
• Feature Bark
• Feature Tree
• Perennial
• Suitable for Avenue Planting
• Suitable for Large Gardens
• Autumn Colour

Toxicity:

• Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets.

Companion Plants:

• Camellia
• Clivia
• Helleborus
• Hydrangea
• Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa)
• Liriope
• Magnolia
• Rhododendron
• Woodland ferns

This cultivar is grown by Flemings Nurseries, one of Australia's most renowned growers.
Image used with permission from Fleming’s Nurseries.

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