American Witch-hazel
Hamamelis virginiana · Hamamelidaceae (Witch-hazel family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Obovate to broadly elliptical with an asymmetric base and zero lobes
Margin
Wavily dentate or crenate
Arrangement
Alternate on short petioles
Venation
Pinnate with highly prominent, straight secondary veins ending at teeth tips
Key Features
The wavy-toothed margin, strongly asymmetric leaf base, and prominent straight lateral veins define this species
Description
A large deciduous shrub or small multi-stemmed tree reaching heights of 4 to 8 meters with smooth light brown bark. It produces fragrant yellow strap-shaped flowers in late autumn alongside woody capsules that release seeds mechanically.
Habitat
Understory of deciduous forests, thriving in moist to dry acidic soils and partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern North America from Nova Scotia west to Ontario and south to Florida and Texas