
Common Name: Vernal Witchhazel
Hamamelis vernalis, commonly known as Vernal Witch Hazel, is a deciduous shrub valued for its very early bloom time and fragrant winter flowers. Oval green leaves emerge in spring, form a dense canopy through summer, and turn yellow in fall, while clusters of small, ribbon-like flowers appear in mid to late winter (often January to March) in shades of yellow to reddish-orange, sometimes with a spicy fragrance. Its early flowering and adaptability make it a reliable choice for cold climates. Type: Deciduous shrub Mature Size: Width: 8–12 ft Height: 8–12 ft (10-year size: approx. 6–8 ft tall × 5–7 ft wide) USDA Zones: 4a–8b Form: Rounded to spreading, often multi-stemmed Light: Full sun to partial shade (best flowering in sun) Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to a range of conditions Water: Moderate; tolerates occasional dry conditions once established Wildlife: Provides early-season nectar for pollinators Features & Landscape Uses Very early winter bloom (often mid-winter) Fragrant flowers in yellow to red tones Adaptable and cold hardy Excellent for naturalized or woodland plantings Care Low-maintenance and adaptable. Plant in full sun to partial shade for best flowering. Prune after flowering if needed. Tolerates a range of soils and is more adaptable to clay than other witch hazels. Mulch to retain moisture and maintain healthy roots.
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub |
| Width: | 8-12' |
| Height: | 8-12' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Zone: | 5 - 8 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Hummingbirds |
| Exposure: | Full Sun |
| Bloom Time: | Early Winter, Late Winter, Winter |
| Bark Type: | Smooth |
| Landscape/Use: | Foundation |
| Shape: | Vase Shaped, Upright |
| Soil Type | Acidic, Moist well-drained |
| Flower Color: | Yellow, Red |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Yellow |
| Est. 10-Yr Width: | 6-8' |
| Est. 10-Yr Height: | 5-7' |