Hamamelis Vernalis

Description

Hamamelis Vernalis is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family of Hamamelidaceae. It is commonly known as Ozark Witch Hazel or Vernal Witch Hazel. The shrub is native to the central and eastern parts of the United States and can grow up to a height of 10 feet.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of the Ozark Witch Hazel are alternate, simple, and oval-shaped. They have a dark green color and can grow up to 6 inches long. The shrub produces yellow to red flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring, even before the leaves appear. The flowers have a strong, pleasant fragrance and can last for up to a month. The bark of the shrub is gray-brown and smooth, with some visible fissures as it ages.

Care Guide

Hamamelis Vernalis is an easy-to-grow shrub that requires low maintenance. Here is a care guide for the shrub:

Water

Hamamelis Vernalis prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the shrub regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry weather.

Fertilization

The shrub does not require much fertilization. You can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.

Soil

Hamamelis Vernalis grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The shrub prefers soil that is slightly acidic.

Sunlight

The shrub can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it blooms best in full sun.

Hardiness Zones

Hamamelis Vernalis is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Ozark Witch Hazel is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common pests and diseases that can affect the shrub include:

Pests

• Aphids
• Scale
• Mites

Diseases

• Leaf spot
• Anthracnose
• Root rot

Habitat

Hamamelis Vernalis is native to the central and eastern parts of the United States. The shrub grows in the understory of deciduous forests, along streams, and in rocky, wooded slopes. The shrub prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

Question and Answer

Q: When does Hamamelis Vernalis bloom?

A: The shrub blooms in late winter or early spring, even before the leaves appear.

Q: How tall can Hamamelis Vernalis grow?

A: The shrub can grow up to a height of 10 feet.

Q: Is Hamamelis Vernalis resistant to pests and diseases?

A: The shrub is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but can be affected by some common pests and diseases such as aphids and leaf spot.

Q: What is the preferred soil type for Hamamelis Vernalis?

A: The shrub prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic.

Related Plants

• Hamamelis mollis
• Hamamelis virginiana
• Hamamelis x intermedia
• Hamamelis japonica

References

• Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Timber Press.
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Hamamelis vernalis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g660
• University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. (2021). Ozark witch hazel. Retrieved from https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-database/shrubs/ozark-witch-hazel.aspx