THE’amamelideknown by the scientific name of Hamamelisit is a plant that brings with it a halo of mystery, combined with a natural elegance. Originally from North America and the Far East, it belongs to the family of Hamamelidaceae. Its peculiarity? Flourish in the colder months.
Amamelide description
The wetwell looks like a shrub or a small tree that can reach a height of about five/six meters. The leaves, of an intense green during the summer, are tinged with warmer shades during the autumn season, ranging from golden yellow to scarlet red.
The real magic, however, takes place in winter, when the flowers, similar to curled ribbons, bloom in a palette that varies from yellow to copper, up to live red. It is not uncommon to walk in the garden during a freezing day and let yourself be surprised by the delicate and spicy scent of its petals.
The varieties of amamelide
Five main species are classified within the Hamamelis genre:
Each variety has unique peculiarities, making this plant versatile both for the gardens and for pots in pots.
Where to place the amamelide
To grow luxuriantly, the amelide prefers semi-umbrented or slightly sunny positions. It is important to protect it from excessively intense cold winds, which could damage the delicate flowers. In the garden, it is recommended to plant it in a group to create color stains, but it is also possible to grow it as an isolated specimen, where it can become the focal point of a green space.
What ground to use for the Amelide
The secret for a healthy and luxuriant amamelide is a neutral or slightly acidic soil, rich in organic and well -drained substance. Even if he manages to tolerate different types of soil, he prefers wet substrates, without water stagnation. A good advice lies in egging the ground with mature compost during putting in place, usually in the months of October and November.
How to grow amamelide in pot
If you do not have a garden, the amamelide can be grown in pots, as long as a large and deep container will be used. You will have to guarantee it a good drainage, placing a layer of expanded clay on the bottom of the pot or gravel. The ideal substrate is composed of universal soil mixed with peat and sand, to encourage a correct flow of water. Do not forget to place the vase in a place that is bright and repaired at the same time.
Irrigation and fertilization of loved
The Hamagelide does not require frequent irrigation, but it is essential to keep the soil constantly humid, especially during the summer months. In winter, the watering can be reduced, but you will have to prevent the substrate from drying completely. As for fertilization, it is advisable to use an organic fertilizer slowly released in spring, to encourage both growth and flowering.
When the amamelide blooms
As mentioned at the opening, one of the most fascinating characteristics of amamelide is winter flowering, which takes place between January and February. The flowers, which bloom directly on the naked branches, challenge the rigid temperatures to give us a touch of vitality in a period in which nature is usually stripped.
Amateur diseases and parasites
Ameloide is a rustic and resistant plant, but it is not entirely immune to diseases and parasites. Among the most common problems are the radical rot, caused by water stagnation, and the attack of aphids, which can be contrasted with some natural remedies, such as the Nettle Macerato. In addition, it is important to monitor any stains on the leaves, a sign of possible fungal infections.
Symbolism and curiosity about the amamelide
Known as “Witch Hazel”, or “Nocciolo delle Streghe”, the Amelide owes its nickname to a curious anecdote. The first European colonists of Virginia noticed the similarity of the plant with the European core and began to use its branches for romantic practices, thus associating it with the world of witches. This plant does not only have an aesthetic charm: the American indigenous people considered it a real cure -all, exploiting leaves and cortex for its emollient and healing properties, as we will see in the next paragraph.
Use and benefits of amamelide
As already anticipated, the beneficial properties of the amamelide were already known by the Native Americans, who exploited their healing virtues to treat wounds and injuries. In the nineteenth century, European colonists began to use the distillate of the leaves to relieve sunburn and eye irritations due to excessive exposure to the sun. Thanks to the presence of active compounds such as Amelostannium, a special tannin contained in the leaves and in the cortex, the amamelide has become a fundamental ingredient in herbal medicine. It is used in lotions and creams for the treatment of impure and red skin, thanks to its soothing and astringent properties. In addition, in the form of infusions, fluid extracts or distilled water, the amamelide proves to be effective for gargarisms, skin compresses and as a remedy for small dermatological problems.
