Vernal Witchhazel (Hamamelis vernalis)

Vernal Witch-hazel is a large shrub with upright branches.  The yellow and orange-red flowers have a spicy fragrance and appear late winter or very early spring and last three to four weeks. The dark green foliage turns a rich golden yellow in the fall. The dried leaves often persist into winter. Birds are attracted to the seed capsules. They tend to sucker and form colonies so a great choice for a naturalized landscape. Tolerates clay soils and wet sites but prefers well-drained soil.

NATIVE RANGE

Map courtesy of USDA-NRCS Plants Database.

Photos courtesy of the Morton Arboretum.