Hamamelis festival

The magic of the winter

Hamamelis x intermedia

Discover the magic of the winter bloomers. Arboretum Kalmthout is known over the whole world for its collection of witch hazels. For some tens of years now the 'Witch hazel festival' has been organised here to celebrate the appearance of this winter bloomer. Arboretum Kalmthout has more than just the largest collection of Hamamelis in Europe. It also has a large collection of other winter blooming plants - shrubs, trees and perennials. A visit during the Witch hazel festival is highly recommended

Not only does the large number of winter blooming plants make this winter festival an event not to be missed by all lovers of gardens and plants. Also the age and dimensions of many witch hazels make a visit an unforgettable experience. Various plants are the original mother plants from which all commercially cultivated young plants stem from. The selection of new and continuously better cultivated varieties is always important. Arboretum Kalmthout also received a prize from the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta (AABGA) for the work provided.

Plants for sale

There is an exclusive selection of the best winter blooming plants for sale in the Plant centre. Of course you can find many different cultivated varieties of Hamamelis here (mostly about 20-25 varieties), from 40 cm to more than 2 metres high! All the other garden plants that are beautiful in the winter are also well represented.  

Miss Witch Hazel contest

On this day visitors are invited to bring a blooming branch from the witch hazel in their own garden with them to Arboretum Kalmthout. All the branches submitted are exhibited to the public in a stand. Both professionals and members of the public form the jury for judging the branches exhibited. The most beautiful branches are rewarded with the title of 'Miss Witch Hazel'.

There are different categories for taking part: best red, yellow and orange blooms, best smelling, and best of the best. 

To take part and for more information about the 'Miss Witch Hazel' competition, please contact the reception desk.

Guided tours

Special themed guided tours can be given in Dutch, French, German and English (Monday - Saturday). Please contact the reception desk for more information.