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Ozark witchhazel

Scientific Name: Hamamelis vernalis

Family: Hamamelidaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Ozark Witch Hazel (Hamamelis vernalis)

Hamamelis vernalis, commonly known as Ozark witch hazel or vernal witch hazel, is a captivating plant celebrated for its unique flowering time and historical uses.

Considerations for Pets

  • Mentioned as having a history as a medicinal plant.

Considerations for Children

  • Mentioned as having a history as a medicinal plant.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Hamamelis vernalis Sarg.
  • Common Names: Ozark witch hazel, Vernal witch hazel
  • Family: Hamamelidaceae (Witch-Hazel Family)
  • Synonym: Hamamelis vernalis var. (exact rank not specified)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the Ozark Plateau region of central North America.
  • Specifically found in Missi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
  • Grows in moist to dry woods and Ozark river valleys.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Described as a suckering, multi-stemmed, medium-sized shrub or small tree.
  • Typically reaches a height of 6-10 feet.
  • Deciduous shrub with deeply-veined leaves that turn golden-yellow in autumn.

Ecological Role

  • A "tough plant" hailing from the contiguous, rugged Ozark Mountain areas.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Flowers provide a source of nectar for pollinators during late winter and early spring.

Quirky Facts

  • Forked switches of Ozark witch hazel were traditionally used by "witch wigglers" or "water witches" in the Ozark region to locate underground water sources for digging wells.
  • Ozark witch hazel is known as the first woody species to flower each year.

Additional Information

  • The Ozark witch hazel blooms from December through March.
  • The Sweet Scent of Ozark Witch Hazel (Hamamelis&nbsp&*!
  • Can create a healing tea and soothing burns.
  • Dave's Garden is a resource for tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.