American Witch-Hazel (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 (unequal) base
Margin
Wavily toothed or coarsely crenate-dentate
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with prominent, straight secondary veins running out to the marginal teeth
Key Features
Distinctively asymmetrical leaf bases, wavy-toothed margins, prominent straight veins, and late autumn flowering with yellow ribbon petals
Description
American Witch-Hazel is a large deciduous shrub or small multi-stemmed tree known for its unusual habit of blooming in late autumn when its leaves are dropping. It produces fragrant, ribbon-like yellow petals that curl in freezing weather and uncurl on warmer winter days.
Habitat
Understory of deciduous forests, woodland borders, damp thickets, and along stream banks; prefers moist, well-drained acidic to neutral soils
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Minnesota, and south to Florida and Texas