Witch-hazel
Hamamelis virginiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Hamamelis virginiana is a native shrub found across eastern North America that produces fragrant yellow flowers in October and November. This witch-hazel thrives in partial shade and attracts late-season pollinators like bees and moths.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Witch-hazel as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
120"–240" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Witch-hazel is a large native shrub that produces fragrant yellow flowers in late fall after the leaves drop. It grows slowly into a broad, open form and provides excellent wildlife habitat while tolerating shade well.
Growing Witch-hazel
Grow Witch-hazel in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 120 to 240 inches tall and spread 120 to 240 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Witch-hazel takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very large mature size may overwhelm typical residential spaces
- Open, irregular growth habit looks informal
- Blooms on bare branches may appear odd to some
Wildlife value
Host plant for luna moth.
The late-season blooms provide crucial nectar for bees and moths when few other flowers are available. The shrub also supports various caterpillars and provides nesting sites for birds.
Common questions
- When does Hamamelis virginiana bloom?
- Witch-hazel blooms in October and November, making it one of the latest flowering native shrubs in North America.
- What pollinators visit Hamamelis virginiana?
- Bees and moths are the primary pollinators of witch-hazel, taking advantage of its late fall blooming period when few other flowers are available.
- Where is Hamamelis virginiana native?
- Witch-hazel is native to much of eastern North America, from Maine to Florida and west to Minnesota, Texas, and North Dakota.
- What growing conditions does witch-hazel prefer?
- Hamamelis virginiana grows best in partial shade with medium moisture but can adapt to various light and water conditions.
- Is Witch-hazel toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Witch-hazel as toxic to livestock.
- Is Witch-hazel HOA-friendly?
- Witch-hazel takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Witch-hazel? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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