X Sycoparrotia Semidecidua ‘Purple Haze’ (Hybrid fig-hazel)

This is a spreading hybrid shrub or small tree. Hardy and semi-deciduous, the spring foliage is purple, in summer it is deep green and then turns to flame colours in the autumn. Red witch hazel type flowers in early spring.

Position in dappled shade in fertile, acid to neutral soil that is moist but well drained. One parent is Persian and one Chinese, so plant in a protected spot and sheltered from the north winds.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.