Family: Hamamelidaceae

This single-species genus originates from China and Japan.

Species

L. chinense grows to 4 m (13 ft) in mild conditions, with attractive, evergreen foliage and profuse clusters of cream flowers, similar to those of witch hazel, in late winter or spring.

Cultivation

An ideal shrub for a sheltered, woodland garden or shrub border, it needs par­tial shade and a moisture-retentive, yet well-drained soil, containing plenty of humus. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer in a heated propagating case, or from seed sown as soon as ripe in a garden frame.

Climate

Zone 8.