Chinese fighazel (Sycopsis sinensis)

Chinese fighazel

Also known as: Evergreen witch hazel

Chinese fighazel is a beautiful short tree from the family of witch hazels found in the forests of China. It has gained popularity in cottage gardens due to its petal-less flowers that resemble a red brush. Thanks to these flowers and its country of origin, this plant got its common name, Chinese fighazel.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese fighazel (Sycopsis sinensis)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

3 m to 4.5 m

Plant Height

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Distribution of Chinese fighazel

Distribution Map

Chinese fighazel is a plant primarily native to the temperate regions of East Asia. It has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of the world, thriving in botanical gardens and specialized plant collections globally. Its successful adaptation beyond its native range signifies an ability to acclimate to a variety of environmental conditions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Mountain thickets, evergreen forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Chinese fighazel

Lustrous, dark green leaves with cuneate base and acuminate apex aid in chinese fighazel identification.

Multi-stemmed shrub growing up to 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) in height.

Distinctive fruit: egg-shaped capsule around 0.8 inches (2 cm) long, turning brown when ripe.

Stems start textured with scales, turning smooth and dark brown with maturity.

Tufted, petal-less yellowish flowers with long red anthers blooming late winter to early spring.

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Care Guide for Chinese fighazel

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese fighazel is drought-tolerant and requires moderate humidity, needing water every 2-3 weeks with dry soil between sessions. Grown outdoors, it can rely on adequate rainfall during its growing season, depending on the climate zone.

Fertilize: For chinese fighazel, use balanced fertilizers in spring and summer for growth, switching to high nitrogen types for leaf development. Fertilize monthly at half-strength, adjusting to bi-monthly in fall and withholding in winter. Water thoroughly after fertilization to enhance nutrient uptake and prevent soil chemical buildup.

Pruning: Chinese fighazel is an evergreen shrub with leathery leaves and fragrant flowers. Prune in early to late winter to shape and remove dead or crossing branches, enhancing air circulation. This timing promotes healthy growth, light penetration, and vivid new growth while maintaining an attractive form.

Propagation: Chinese fighazel is a deciduous shrub propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings during active growth. Utilize rooting hormone and well-draining medium, maintaining consistent moisture and warmth. Place cuttings in indirect light until rooted, then gradually acclimatize them to outdoor conditions.

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