About the Witch-hazel -
Vernal :
The Vernal Witch-hazel, Hamamelis vernalis, is a
deciduous, winter-blooming shrub, with a rounded
habit which typically grows 6-10' tall with a
somewhat larger spread. It is noted for its
extremely early (January to February-March) and
lengthy (to 4 weeks) bloom period. The fragrant,
globular flower clusters have variable coloration,
but flowers most frequently have yellow petals and
reddish inner calyxes.
Ovate, dull green leaves (2-5") turn an
attractive golden yellow in autumn. Extract obtained
from the leaves, bark and stems was formerly used
medicinally by native Americans for, inter alia,
external treatment of sprains, bruises and
inflammations.
