Overview:
Most people are familiar with witch hazel because of its use in skin care as an astringent. It is a large shrub that is noteworthy for being one of the last species to flower. Witch hazel also adds winter interest with leaves that turn yellow in the fall, and is moderately drought tolerant.
Latin name:
Hamamelis virginiana
Common Names:
Witch hazel, American witch hazel, common witch hazel
USDA Hardiness Zones:
Zones 4-8
Size & Shape:
Though it can sometimes grow as large as 30' tall and 25' wide, witch hazel is commonly 10-15' wide and tall.
Witch hazel's shape is open and irregular - rounded or vase-shaped.
Exposure:
Witch hazel needs full sun to partial shade.
Foliage/ Flowers/Fruit:
The oval, toothed leaves are 4-8" long and 2-4" wide. They are reddish-bronze when they first appear, turning to green. In fall, they turn yellow or orange before dropping.
Witch hazel is one of the last shrubs to produce flowers. They appear in late autumn/early winter. They are small, fragrant yellow blossoms that look like shredded coconut.
Small 4-part seed pods
Additional Facts:
Witch hazel has some resistance to pollution.
Forked branches of witch hazel were used to "divine" water or gold. The branches were said to pull downward when water or gold was present underground.
Witch hazel is often used as an astringent in beauty care products. It also helps reduce itching and swelling (i.e. used for hemorrhoids).
Design Tips:
Use witch hazel in shrub borders, parking strips, and as a screen.
Good shrub to add fall and winter interest, especially since this is one of the last to bloom.
Moderately drought tolerant.
Growing Tips:
Witch hazel prefers moist acidic soil, though it can adapt to most types.
Seed propagation is the best method, as cuttings are difficult to start.
Maintenance/Pruning:
Witch hazel only needs pruning to maintain the overall shape you desire.
Pests & Diseases
No major pests or diseases. There may be leaf galls from 2 types of aphids, but they are generally harmless. The saddled prominent caterpillar and the Eastern tent caterpillar feed on the leaves.Witch hazel may be affected by fungal leaf spots or powdery mildew.
