Flower of witchhazel, Hamamelis virginiana. Witchhazel is the only native shrub that flowers in the winter in the eastern US. It is commonly found along streambanks and in coves and other rich, moist sites. Witchhazel is the source of the astringent and cleansing agents sold as Witch Hazel.
Witchhazel is pollinated by the winter moth, Eupsilia spp., which is active on warm winter days. This insect should not be confused with the non-native winter moth, Operophtera brumata, which is a harmful pest species in the northeastern US.
