Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)

Common witch hazel is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is best known for its fringed yellow flowers that appear in late Fall and persist after the leaves have dropped. Can grow to 15' tall. It grows best in average, well-drained, organically rich soils in full sun to part shade. Flowering starts when the plant is about six years old. Best flowering is in full sun. Leaves and flowers are fragrant. Tolerates heavy clay soils, erosion, and browsing by deer, but will not tolerate drought. Little pruning is required but will sucker and form colonies if left alone. No serious insect pests. A popular landscape shrub because it is long-lived, it offers fall and winter interest, and it has wildlife value.

This flowering shrub is native to eastern North America and is found in moist woods, thickets, and bottomlands. A pollinator plant, it attracts moths and supports 62 species of caterpillars. Birds and small mammals eat the fruits. Beaver and deer browse the foliage. Seeds are eaten by granivorous birds and small mammals. 

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

Photo by Kathy Thornton