Eva Monheim
Family
Hamamelidaceae
Botanical Name
Hamamelis virginiana
Plant Common Name
Common Witchhazel
General Description
The spreading branches of the common witchhazel become covered with fine, ribbony blossoms of bright yellow in autumn as its yellow fall foliage is dropping. This large, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub exists in the moist understory of forests across the eastern United States and southern Canada. It is tough, hardy and adds delicate beauty to the fall garden.
The broad, oval leaves of common witchhazel are medium to dark green with irregular, wavy toothed edges. In autumn, the foliage turns warm golden yellow. At the same time, fine ribbon-like flowers appear along the branches. These have a spicy sweet fragrance that permeates the air around the plant. The tiny flowers are pollinated by bees and flies, and the fruits that follow are small, brown, two-parted capsules that persist on the branches and explode to release the seeds.
Plant common witchhazel in full to partial sun and organic-rich soil with even moisture and good drainage. It naturally exists in woods with both acid and alkaline soils, so it will tolerate both. Pruning is rarely necessary and should be done sparingly and selectively if at all. This is an exceptionally robust shrub, but it lacks the ornamental punch of some if its heavily hybridized, Asian counterparts. Nonetheless, it is wonderful for naturalistic areas and woodland gardens. Plant it where its fragrance and beauty can best be enjoyed.
Another facet of this shrub is its medicinal qualities. Hamamelis virginiana was widely used by native Americans to relieve a host of ailments ranging from sore muscles to skin disorders. It is still available today in the form of skin tinctures and wipes used to reduce skin inflammation.
Characteristics
-
AHS Heat Zone
8 - 1
-
USDA Hardiness Zone
3 - 8
-
Sunset Zone
A2, A3, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21
-
Plant Type
Shrub
-
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
-
Bloom Time
Late Fall, Early Winter, Winter
-
Native To
North America, United States, Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic United States, Southeastern United States, North-Central United States, Central United States, South-Central United States, Canada
Growing Conditions
-
Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
-
Soil Drainage
Well Drained
-
Soil type
Clay, Loam
-
Growth Rate
Medium
-
Water Requirements
Drought Tolerant, Average Water
-
Habit
Spreading
-
Seasonal Interest
Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
-
Flower Interest
Showy
-
Flower Color
Yellow, Light Yellow
-
Fruit Color
Tan, Sandy Brown
-
Foliage Color (Spring)
Green, Light Green
-
Foliage Color (Summer)
Green, Dark Green
-
Foliage Color (Fall)
Yellow, Gold
-
Bark Color
Sandy Brown, Gray
-
Fragrant Flowers
Yes
-
Fragrant Fruit
No
-
Fragrant Foliage
No
-
Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
-
Flower Petal Number
Single
-
Repeat Bloomer
No
-
Showy Fruit
No
-
Edible Fruit
No
-
Showy Foliage
Yes
-
Foliage Texture
Coarse
-
Foliage Sheen
Matte
-
Evergreen
No
-
Showy Bark
No
