Quick answer: Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is native to 33 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Rich, well-drained soil, acidic pH |
| Bloom | Bloom Sep-Dec |
| Height | 10-15 ft, up to 35 ft |
| Wildlife value | Birds eat seed capsules, foliage browsed by deer and beaver, seeds eaten by granivorous birds and small mammals |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Witch-hazel
Where is Witch-hazel native?
Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is native to 33 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Witch-hazel bloom?
Witch-hazel blooms Sep-Dec. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Witch-hazel need?
Light: Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium water, Dry-Moist. Soil: Rich, well-drained soil, acidic pH. Mature height: 10-15 ft, up to 35 ft.
Is Witch-hazel good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Birds eat seed capsules, foliage browsed by deer and beaver, seeds eaten by granivorous birds and small mammals.
Is Witch-hazel deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Witch-hazel is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Witch-hazel seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Hamamelis virginiana on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Witch-hazel.
- Common winterberry Ilex verticillata
- Black cherry Prunus serotina
- White ash Fraxinus americana
- White oak Quercus alba
- Shagbark hickory Carya ovata
- American basswood Tilia americana
Also listed under
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