Witch hazel
Hamamelis virginiana · Hamamelidaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around witch hazel and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- Fall to winter (September to February)
- Mature size
- 4 to 6 m tall, 3 to 4 m wide
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Soil type
- Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist, especially during the first year after planting. During dry periods, water deeply once or twice a week. Once established, witch hazel tolerates moisture variations better but appreciates fresh soil.
Light exposure
Plant witch hazel in sun or partial shade. Full sun exposure encourages more abundant flowering. In partial shade, it grows well but flowers less densely. Avoid areas that are too hot and dry in summer.
Pruning and training
Perform light pruning after flowering to maintain a balanced shape. Remove dead or crossing branches. Avoid severe pruning, which damages the natural structure and harms the following season's blooming.
Soil and preparation
Witch hazel prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Enrich the planting hole with compost or peat. Apply organic mulch at the surface to retain moisture and regulate root temperature.
Fertilization
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is usually sufficient. Work mature compost into the soil around the base each fall. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pests and diseases
Witch hazel is generally robust. Watch for scale insects and spider mites in overly dry conditions. Powdery mildew may appear with excess stagnant moisture. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Did you know?
Hamamelis virginiana is famous for its fragrant flowers that bloom in the heart of winter, often from September through February, making it a treasure of the winter garden. Its quirky nickname of "devil's coffee" comes from its properties traditionally used in American pharmacopoeia, particularly witch hazel extract, widely known for its soothing and toning properties.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese fringe flowerLoropetalum chinense
- Persian ironwoodParrotia persica
- Large witch alderFothergilla latifolia
- Buttercup WinterhazelCorylopsis pauciflora
- Hamamelis intermediaHamamelis intermedia
- Chinese witch-hazelHamamelis mollis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.