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Hamamelis vernalis

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:	Not verified
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'