Common Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana): Native Fall-Blooming Shrub

Common witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a native understory plant becoming leggy in shade but graceful spreading shrub to 20 feet in open. Broad leaves turn clear bright yellow in autumn.

Late-Season Surprise

Abundant pale yellow fall flowers accompany foliage—wonderful late-season surprise. Deceptively fragile blossoms appear late October, keeping winter at bay for weeks.

Culture & Propagation

Part shade to full sun, moist but well-drained acidic to neutral soil in open site. Deep rich soil tolerates alkaline. Minimal pruning. Sow ripe seeds in cold frame. Graft late winter, bud late summer.

Problems

Gall aphids, leaf roller, scale, powdery mildew, leaf spots, wood rot.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 10–15 ft.
• Growth Habit: Clumps
• Growth Pace: Moderate
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Moderate
• Attributes: Native, attracts songbirds, showy fall foliage & flowers
• Bloom Time: Fall
• Flower Color: Yellow
• Uses: Beds, borders, specimen, woodland gardens