Vernal Witch-Hazel

Tagged as: Large Deciduous Shrubs, Plants Tolerant of Wet Sites, Trees and Shrubs That Attract Birds

Botanical Name: Hamamelis vernalis
Common Name: Vernal Witch-Hazel

Updated 4/2012

Click on an image to enlarge

fall color	flowers

Height: 6-10' Spread: 10-15' Habit/Form: Rounded to upright Growth Rate: Medium  Zone: 4-8

Cultural Requirements: Planted in part shade it has a more open habit while in full sun it has a denser, rounded habit. Performs best in moist, well-drained soil high in organic matter, but will also tolerate poorly drained clay soil. More tolerant of high pH soil than common witch-hazel (H. virginana). Mulch to maintain a moist root environment. Avoid dry conditions.

Ornamental Characteristics: One of the first shrubs to flower in the spring. Spicy, fragrant yellow and orange-to-red flowers appear in late February and last three to four weeks. New foliage has an attractive bronzy-red color, which matures to a dark green, then a rich, butter-yellow to golden-yellow in the fall. Dried leaves often persist into winter. Fruit capsules mature in September-October when they split to expel black seeds.

Uses in the Landscape: Plants can sucker forming colonies. Great for massing, screening, or naturalizing. Also makes a good naturalized hedge.

Birds Attracted: Robin, junco, titmouse, cardinal, and many others

Plant Appeal for Birds: Seeds released in September-October

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