Hamamelis vernalis

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

Height

8-12'

Width

8-12'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Winter, Late Winter, Winter

Flower color

Red, Yellow

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Hummingbirds

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Upright, Vase Shaped

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

5-7'

10-year width

6-8'