Witch-hazel

Hamamelis virginiana

Description: Witch-hazel grows in sun or part shade and can grow to 15-30’. They flower in the fall with yellow flowers from October–December and fruit October-November. The leaves turn yellow in fall. They tolerate some deer browsing. The seeds forcefully shoot out of woody capsules when ripe, going about 45’ from the tree - watch out!

Harvesting: The leaves can be harvested in the fall and the flowers in late fall to winter.

Taste and Flavor: The seeds of witch hazel are edible. Animals such as pheasants, grouses, bob-whites, white-tailed deer, beavers and black bears eat the fruit. The leaves contain tannins.

Nutritional Value: The leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, essential for maintaining overall health.

Uses: Witch-hazel was used by Native Americans to treat fevers, inflammation, and colds. It is used today in ointments, soaps, and lotions to treat skin irritation and inflamed tissues and found in face cleansers and anti-aging creams. Birds and squirrels tend to eat the seeds.  The leaves can be used for tea. The flowers can be used for tea and garnishes.

Allergies and Precautions: Can interact with blood thinners and other medications.

Did you know? Why "witch"?  Dowsers used the branches to find water and gold - called “water-witching” -, which some thought of as witchcraft. It was said that the branches pulled downward when gold and water were present underground.