Witch Hazel

Hamamelis virginiana

Family: Hamamelidaceae

Location:

native to Eastern United States and East Asia
generally occurs along streams or river banks

Characteristics:

shrub or small tree
can grow in moist, clay-like soil
tolerant of both shady and sunny conditions
irregular crooked branching pattern
explosive seed capsules shoot seeds up to 36 feet away, often with a loud popping noise

Leaves:

wavy-toothed
uneven base
bright green, turning yellow in early to mid-autumn

Flower and Fruit:

yellow, fringy
clustered in bunches along branches
fragrant
bloom late autumn to winter
curl up when it is cold
pairs or tight groups of stubby, four-parted seed pods can usually be found at any time of year

Uses:

Shred the tender twigs for use as a toothbrush. This softwood burns quickly and brightly making it ideal for heat and quick cooking. However, do not depend on witch hazel branches to last until the s’mores; the wood will quickly burn out leaving only ashes rather than smoldering embers.