In-Depth Description
Common witch-hazel is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to woodlands, forest margins, and stream banks in eastern North America. Even though witch-hazel blooms when the weather is cooler, it relies primarily on insects for pollination. In fall, its hard woody fruit capsules are forced or ‘shot-out’ to a distance of 30’ and eaten by turkey and Ruffed Grouse. The aromatic extract of witch-hazel leaves, twigs, and bark is used in mildly astringent lotions. A myth of witchcraft held that a forked branch of witch hazel could be used to locate underground water.
Chickadee, Photo Credit: Litchfield Hills Audubon
