Common Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
Common Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
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The Common Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a native North American shrub renowned for its striking late-season blooms and versatile uses. Blooming in late fall to early winter, often after its leaves drop, this deciduous plant offers fragrant, spidery yellow flowers that brighten the landscape when most others fade. Valued for centuries for its medicinal properties—particularly its astringent bark and leaves—Common Witchhazel is also a favorite among gardeners for its ecological benefits and low-maintenance charm.
- Flavor Profile: While not a fruiting plant, its subtle, sweet fragrance during bloom season evokes a crisp, autumnal essence, delighting the senses.
- Plant Characteristics: Grows 15–20 feet tall and wide at maturity, with a multi-stemmed, open form. Leaves turn a brilliant yellow in fall, complementing the ribbon-like flowers.
- Growth Habit: Forms a loose, vase-shaped structure with arching branches, ideal for naturalized settings or as a specimen plant.
Growing Information
Common Witchhazel thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an adaptable addition to many landscapes:
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3–8, tolerating cold winters and moderate summers.
- Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade but adapts to full sun or full shade; best flowering occurs with some sunlight.
- Soil Preferences: Grows well in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils (pH 5.5–6.5), though it tolerates clay or sandy conditions with adequate moisture.
- Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
- Pruning: Minimal pruning needed. Trim in late winter or early spring to shape or remove dead wood, enhancing airflow and bloom production.
This shrub exhibits excellent resistance to pests and diseases, rarely requiring chemical treatments. Its deep roots help stabilize soil, and its late blooms provide critical nectar for pollinators like bees in fall. Regular monitoring and basic care keep it thriving.
Pollination & Sourcing
- Pollination: Self-fertile, producing flowers without needing a companion plant. Cross-pollination with other witchhazels may increase seed set if desired.
- Sourcing: Our Common Witchhazel plants are sourced from reputable growers in the Northeast, specializing in cold-hardy natives, and are guaranteed non-GMO.
Why Choose Common Witchhazel?
- Ecological Benefits: Attracts late-season pollinators and supports wildlife with its seeds and cover.
- Landscape Appeal: Adds year-round interest with fall color, winter blooms, and a graceful form.
- Historical Use: Traditionally harvested for its bark and leaves, used in herbal remedies and skincare products.
Perfect for woodland gardens, hedgerows, or as a standalone feature, Common Witchhazel brings resilience and beauty to your farm or homestead. Pair it with other natives like elderberry or aronia for a vibrant, sustainable planting.
Shipping: Available for pre-order; ships bare-root starting late February 2025 to ensure optimal planting time. Grown and shipped within the USA only.
Bareroot trees come with 1-2 ft tops. Although small, they establish fast and if instructions are followed, will catch up and surpass larger burlap and ball trees.
Non-GMO Commitment: At Growing Farmers and The Farm on Central, all our plants are guaranteed non-GMO and not genetically modified in any way, upholding natural breeding methods and promoting sustainable gardening and farming practices.
