Hamamelis virginiana Witch hazel (Hamamelidaceae) Deciduous shrub

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Hamamelis virginiana
Witch hazel
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Hamamelis virginiana plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Wisconsin and south to Texas and N. Florida. It is a member of the Hamamelidaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Witch hazel.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Hamamelis virginiana
Common Name:  Witch hazel
Family:  Hamamelidaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  5   Mature Width:  5

Habitat:  Edges of dry or moist woods, in rich soil and on the rocky banks of streams[43, 82]. The best specimens are found in deep rich soils[229].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a moist sandy loam[14, 130] in a sunny position[1], though it tolerates some shade[14]. Prefers a rich well-drained soil[1]. Dislikes dry limy soils but will succeed in a calcareous soil if it is moist[130]. Prefers a position sheltered from cold drying winds in a neutral to slightly acid soil[200]. A very hardy plant tolerating temperatures down to about -35°c[184]. Plants seldom produce seeds in Britain[4]. Witch hazel is a widely used medicinal herb. The bark is harvested commercially from the wild in N. America[61]. The twigs have been used in the past as dowsing rods for water divining[229]. A slow growing shrub, it takes about 6 years to flower from seed[200]. The flowers have a soft sweet perfume[245]. This species is notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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