If anyone has experience with growing this are there any tips, pointers, cautions that I should know? I am especially interested in Vernal Witch hazel. Does it tolerate partial shade? Exposure to wind? Any special cultural requirements? Does it really bloom as early as billed? How tall do they really grow in central IA? I tried to do some research on the shrubs forum but there's nothing like asking the people who are growing it here. Any info is appreciated.
I can't help you with witch hazel, it just brought another plant to mind that I like in central Iowa: Cornus mas. An old quote about cornus mas is that it rivals witch hazel for beauty of its early bloom. I don't know about that because I don't have any witch hazel. The cornus mas tolerates partial shade, can grow quite tall, perhaps 15' on my 15 year olds. It blooms very early. What I really like about it is its rich foliage which actually seems to produce a sweet smell, attractive bark, and virtual lack of maintenence requirement. It produces a cherry-like fruit which can be delicious but only when they are dead-ripe in my experience. But I suppose that is more than enough regarding a plant you didn't ask about.
I don't know a thing about cornus mas except the ad copy in garden catalogues which is is hardly unbiased. Hmm, sounds interesting. I may have to consider it. I am pondering a border/hedge of edible small fruits such as elderberry, currents, gooseberries (no white pines around) and maybe a plum brake of wild plums. This might work there. Thanks for the info. Maria
