Vernal Witchhazel

25 plants per unit

Vernal Witchhazel

Hamamelis vernalis, vernal or Ozark witchhazel, is a deciduous shrub and member of the Witchhazel family (Hamamelidaceae). It’s native range was limited to the Ozark region of Missouri, Oklahoma and Arkansas but is adaptable well beyond this range. It is similar to the common witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), but varies in flower color and adaptability.

Leaves, Stems and Fruit

Leaves are alternate, simple and obovate shaped, medium to dark green above and green beneath. Exist as a multi stemmed, dense, rounded shrub, capable of suckering and forming colonies. Leaves turn buttery yellow in fall. Flowers are yellow to orange or red occurring in late winter (January-February) and very fragrant.

Use

Wildlife- The seeds released in the fall are eaten by various species of birds.

Riparian- Can be used along streambanks for erosion control

Adaptation and Soil
Hamamelis vernalis is a hardy shrub (zones 4-8) that can be grown in primarily the eastern half of KS. It is more tolerant of high pH soils than the common witchhazel, making it more suited for the commonly alkaline soil conditions that occur in the state. It is very tolerant of flooding and poorly drained soils.

Spacing
Space this shrub 6-12 feet apart.

Culture
One- or two year-old, bare-root seedlings, (10 to 14 inches tall) are used in conservation plantings. Controlling competing vegetation is critical in successful establishment of Vernal Witchhazel.

Pests
None of significance.