American Witch-Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)

- Found widely across the Northeast and Southeast of North America, native American witch-hazel blooms as the surrounding forest readies for winter in late October or early November.

- Pollinated by a moth, this tree can grow up to 30 feet tall. When in bloom, its fragrant and stunningly delicate yellow petals and golden leaves make it easy to identify.

- Witch-hazel trees and shrubs make great home landscape additions, though they can take six years to flower.

- Shiny seeds are expelled up to 30 feet from capsules in autumn, then lie dormant through winter. It takes about a year for the seeds to germinate.

- Birds and small mammals feed on the fruit found in the small brown pods, while larger animals like deer and beavers only browse the tree.

- Its petals, bark, and leaves have long been utilized by various Native American tribes for medicinal purposes to treat illness, and are even enjoyed brewed as a tea.