Hamamelis japonica is a deciduous small- tree or shrub,
generally 2-5m in height, with gray barks, found in somewhat dry
slopes or forests on ridges in mountainous regions. Leaves are
alternate, 5-10cm long, 4-7cm wide, diamond-like orbicular to broad
oval; asymmetrical and upper halves are triangular, with margins
coarsely undulate. Flowers bloom before leaves develop. The flowers
set themselves in bundles on branch tips that have emerged from the
axils of the previous year's branches. Petals are 4 in number,
linear, approximately 2cm long, and sepals 4, oval, and generally
dark purple. Bloom time: March-April. |