Posts Tagged ‘flower’

This  early in spring, it is a more than welcome sight to see plants in bloom.  While driving in to our office one morning, I caught sight of a shrub in full bloom in our nursery.  As a person who can’t wait for signs of spring after the long winter, I got really excited, jumped out of my truck and ran over to take in the sight.  It was a Vernal Witchhazel (Hamamelis vernalis) blooming like mad.

As its name would imply, Vernal Witchhazels bloom in very early spring with small strap-like petals that are yellow to orange with a tinge of red at the base.  They grow to become large shrubs or small trees in full sun to partial shade.

Vernal Witchhazel

This is a plant that too often gets overlooked–probably due to its uncommon bloom time–but it has much to offer.  I especially enjoyed smelling the spicy-sweet fragrance from the flowers.  Vernal Witchhazels also offer some late season interest with their yellow fall color.  I appreciate a lot about this plant, but probably what I appreciate most is their eager attitude in spring.  They, much like myself, can’t wait for spring to arrive and as soon as it does, they’re ready to show off their beautiful flowers and get growing for another year.  So for those of us who look forward to the earliest possible signs of spring, this is the perfect plant!