Hamamelis vernalis | Ozark Witch Hazel
DESCRIPTION
Hamamelis vernalis is a deciduous shrub that blooms from late winter into early spring. Its fragrant flowers range in color from yellow to coppery-orange and have narrow, crinkled petals that emerge along bare branches. The blooms provide a welcome burst of color in the dormant landscape, and their sweet, spicy scent adds another layer of seasonal interest. As the seasons progress, its dark green summer foliage transitions to bright yellow, orange, or red in autumn.
Native to the Ozark Plateau in Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, Hamamelis vernalis is distinguished from other witch hazels by its exceptionally long bloom time, often lasting several weeks. It also has a dense, suckering growth habit that allows it to form thickets, making it useful for naturalistic plantings and erosion control. This species is highly adaptable and thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a resilient and valuable addition to gardens looking for multi-season interest.
DESCRIPTION
Hamamelis vernalis is a deciduous shrub that blooms from late winter into early spring. Its fragrant flowers range in color from yellow to coppery-orange and have narrow, crinkled petals that emerge along bare branches. The blooms provide a welcome burst of color in the dormant landscape, and their sweet, spicy scent adds another layer of seasonal interest. As the seasons progress, its dark green summer foliage transitions to bright yellow, orange, or red in autumn.
Native to the Ozark Plateau in Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, Hamamelis vernalis is distinguished from other witch hazels by its exceptionally long bloom time, often lasting several weeks. It also has a dense, suckering growth habit that allows it to form thickets, making it useful for naturalistic plantings and erosion control. This species is highly adaptable and thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a resilient and valuable addition to gardens looking for multi-season interest.
DESCRIPTION
Hamamelis vernalis is a deciduous shrub that blooms from late winter into early spring. Its fragrant flowers range in color from yellow to coppery-orange and have narrow, crinkled petals that emerge along bare branches. The blooms provide a welcome burst of color in the dormant landscape, and their sweet, spicy scent adds another layer of seasonal interest. As the seasons progress, its dark green summer foliage transitions to bright yellow, orange, or red in autumn.
Native to the Ozark Plateau in Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, Hamamelis vernalis is distinguished from other witch hazels by its exceptionally long bloom time, often lasting several weeks. It also has a dense, suckering growth habit that allows it to form thickets, making it useful for naturalistic plantings and erosion control. This species is highly adaptable and thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a resilient and valuable addition to gardens looking for multi-season interest.
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Family: Hamamelidaceae
Height: 6 to 10 feet
Width: 8 to 12 feet
Foliage color: Dark green in summer, turning yellow in fall
Flower color: Bright yellow to orange-red
Bloom time: Mid-winter to early spring
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning after flowering if necessary
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife attractors: Attracts beesThis plant can be seen at the Washington Park Arboretum.
