Alphabetical Plant Listing

Witch Hazel: Plant Care and Growing Guide

Hamamelis mollis (Chinese Witch Hazel), Hamamelis virginiana (Common or Virginia Witch Hazel), Hamamelis vernalis (Vernal, or Ozark Witch Hazel), Hamamelis x intermedia


Grow Witch Hazel with ease and enjoy the beauty of its spidery blooms in late winter to early spring.

What is Witch Hazel?

  1. Plant: Witch hazel is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to North America and Asia.

  2. Species: There are several different species of Hamamelis, each with its own unique features and growing requirements, including Hamamelis virginiana, Hamamelis mollis, and Hamamelis vernalis.

  3. Hardiness: Most Hamamelis species are hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can withstand temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C). The American species, Hamamelis virginiana, is the most cold-hardy of the group: it can be grown in USDA zones 3-8 and can tolerate temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C).

  4. Height/spread: Hamamelis species are medium-sized shrubs that can grow up to 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) tall and wide, but some cultivars can be smaller or larger.

  5. Flowers: The plant is known for its fragrant, spidery flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring. The flowers are usually yellow, orange, or red

  6. Foliage: the foliage of Hamamelis is a beautiful and distinctive feature that adds interest and texture to the landscape. With their glossy texture and attractive fall color in shades of yellow, orange, or red, the leaves are a great addition to any garden or landscape design.

  7. Medicinal and cosmetic uses: Witch hazel is a fascinating and versatile plant with a long history of medicinal and cosmetic uses. Witch hazel has been used for centuries by Native Americans for its medicinal properties, including as a natural remedy for skin irritations and wounds. 

  8. Landscaping uses: Witch hazel is often used in landscaping as a specimen plant or as a border shrub.

  9. Deer: Witch hazel is generally considered to be deer-resistant due to its bitter taste and strong scent. However, it is important to note that deer browsing habits can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, availability of other food sources, and the specific population of deer in the area.

What are the Health Benefits of Witch Hazel?

Witch Hazel has been traditionally used for centuries for its medicinal properties, particularly for treating skin irritations and wounds. Here are some of the health benefits associated with Hamamelis:

  1. Skin care: Hamamelis is commonly used in skincare products due to its astringent properties, which can help to reduce inflammation, redness, and acne. It is also believed to be effective in reducing puffiness around the eyes and treating sunburn.

  2. Wound healing: Hamamelis has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for wound healing. Its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce swelling and promote healing.

  3. Hemorrhoid relief: Hamamelis is often used as a natural remedy for hemorrhoid relief. Its astringent properties can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected area.

  4. Sore throat relief: Hamamelis can be used as a gargle to soothe a sore throat. Its astringent properties can help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat.

  5. Anti-inflammatory: Hamamelis has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and inflammation in various parts of the body, including the skin and mucous membranes.

Overall, Witch Hazel is a versatile and natural remedy that can provide a variety of health benefits. However, it is important to use caution and seek medical advice before using any natural remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any underlying health conditions.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 9
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21
Plant Type Shrubs, Trees
Plant Family Hamamelis - Witch Hazels
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early)
Fall
Winter
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Deer
Landscaping Ideas Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Hamamelis - Witch Hazels Great Plant Combination Ideas with Hamamelis - Witch Hazels Guides with Hamamelis - Witch Hazels

Blok, Shutterstock

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 9
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21
Plant Type Shrubs, Trees
Plant Family Hamamelis - Witch Hazels
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early)
Fall
Winter
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Deer
Landscaping Ideas Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Hamamelis - Witch Hazels Great Plant Combination Ideas with Hamamelis - Witch Hazels Guides with Hamamelis - Witch Hazels

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