Witch hazel - Hamamelis virginiana (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Witch hazel

Also known as: Tobacco-wood, Water-witch, Winterbloom

Witch hazel was used quite commonly in the 20th century for locating water sources. The practice, called dowsing or water witching, is still occasionally used. In dowsing, a forked stick of witch hazel is held perpendicular to the ground and moved slowly over it. The belief is that when a water source is directly under the stick, it will dip or jump.

Scientific classification

Species

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Fall, Early winter

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

6 m to 10 m

Plant Height

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Witch hazel

Attributes of Witch hazel

Growth Rate

Given its slow growth rate, during its active seasons of spring and summer, witch hazel gradually develops its characteristic features. Its leaf production proceeds at a leisurely pace, while its height increase is subtle but steady. This slow growth allows witch hazel to produce fewer, but more robust, branch structures that can robustly support its large, fragrant flowers. Notably, witch hazel's growth speed varies slightly between spring and summer, with a somewhat quicker pace observed in spring, primarily attributed to the pre-summer bloom phase.

Distribution of Witch hazel

Distribution Map

Witch hazel is a North American native plant found in the forests and riverbanks of the center and east of the continent from Mexico into Canada. The plant isn't invasive and doesn't occur elsewhere as an introduced species, despite being a popular garden plant.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Edges of dry or moist woods, rich soil, rocky banks of streams

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Witch hazel is typically used in gardens for screening, hedges, and borders. It is often used in gardens where there is poor soil quality; it can also tolerate quite wet soils. It can be planted with Viburnums and Rhododendrons.

Symbolism

Protection and inspiration, also magic and mysticism

Name Story

American witch-hazel||Witch hazel: The name witch hazel is believed to have come from the Middle English word "wicke" meaning "lively". The dowsing stick bends toward the ground when water is detected at the bottom level. Furthermore, "wych", an old Anglo-Saxon word for "bend" referring to its flower petals bending downwards. Moreover, it is also originated from North America, it is then called American witch-hazel.

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Quickly Identify Witch hazel

Bright yellow, spidery blossoms with four crinkly petals.

Distinctive zig-zag pattern on stems transitioning from pubescent to glabrous.

Alternate leaves with ovate to obovate shape, wavy margin, and pubescent leaf buds.

Two-valved dihiscent capsule maturing from green to woody brown.

Deciduous growth as shrub or small tree with axillary clusters of strap-shaped petals.

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Care Guide for Witch hazel

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Witch hazel thrives in temperate woodlands, preferring moderate moisture and consistent humidity. Drought-tolerant, it needs watering every 1-2 weeks. While resilient in various climates, it flourishes with a balance of rainfall and soil drainage.

Fertilize: Fertilize witch hazel annually with balanced nutrition in early spring using 2-4 inches of compost or slow-release 10-10-10 fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization to protect shallow roots. Younger witch hazel may require biannual feeding, and regular soil nutrient inspections are essential for optimal growth.

Pruning: Witch hazel thrives with late spring pruning, using thinning cuts to enhance air circulation and light access. Maintain its natural shape for better blooms and health. Proper timing is crucial, and sharp, clean tools prevent damage, improving aesthetics and disease resistance.

Propagation: Witch hazel thrives when propagated in autumn and winter via cutting or layering. While not overly challenging, success requires patience, with new growth indicating successful propagation. Maintaining appropriate humidity and temperature is crucial for optimal results.

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Images of Witch hazel

Attributes of Witch hazel

Distribution of Witch hazel

Culture

Quickly Identify Witch hazel

Care Guide for Witch hazel

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