The gender hamamelisWitch hazel, known as witch hazel or magic hazel, is a group of deciduous shrubs and small trees of great ornamental and medicinal value. Their spectacular winter and spring blooms, combined with their autumn color changes, make them a centerpiece of gardens and terraces year-round. Furthermore, their ability to thrive in different environments, including pots, and their multiple cosmetic and therapeutic applications make witch hazel an extraordinarily versatile and prized plant.
Botanical description and origin of Hamamelis
Witch hazel belongs to the family hamamelidaceae and mainly covers five species: Hamamelis virginiana, H. japonica, H. mollis, H. vernalis y H. ovalisThe first three are native to North America, and the other two come from East Asia, especially Japan and China. This distribution explains the diversity of shapes, colors, and uses attributed to them in both traditional gardening and natural medicine.
Witch hazel plants typically grow as shrubs or small trees that reach 3 to 8 meters in height, with a broad crown and woody branches. Its alternate, oval leaves are generously sized (up to 16 cm long by 11 cm wide), markedly veined, and have both smooth and wavy edges. During the fall, the foliage changes color to reddish, orange, or yellow hues, increasing its visual appeal.
Witch hazel owes its popularity, in part, to its unusual winter and spring floweringThe flowers appear in clusters directly on bare branches, with long, twisted petals of yellow, orange, or red, and are often fragrant. This characteristic makes them stand out in the landscape when most species are still dormant.
Flowering and life cycle: A spectacle for the garden
One of the most fascinating aspects of Hamamelis is its flowering out of seasonWhen the garden is dormant in autumn or winter, witch hazel flowers appear as bursts of color and fragrance. Blooming can begin in late autumn and extend into spring, depending on the species and climatic conditions. Its thin, curved petals, in deep yellow, orange, or reddish hues, emerge before the foliage returns, creating a unique and striking contrast.
After pollination, witch hazel develops a capsule fruit that, once ripe, splits open to release a black seed. This process can take several months, providing added ornamental interest even after the leaves fall.
Growing Requirements: How to Care for Witch Hazel?
The success of growing witch hazel depends on choosing the right location, soil, and irrigation. Although it is a robust and undemanding plant, certain requirements are essential to ensure its optimal development:
- Location: It prefers semi-shaded areas, protected from direct sunlight, especially in hot climates. It's essential to avoid exposure to strong winds, which can damage branches and weaken flowering. In temperate climates, it can tolerate more hours of sunlight.
- Temperature: Witch hazel is resistant to cold, tolerating moderate frosts and even sudden temperature changes. It is ideal for regions with harsh winters and mild summers. In areas with severe frost, it is advisable to apply protective mulch around the roots during the winter using pine bark, dried leaves, or mulch.
Irrigation and humidity
Witch hazel needs constant humidity in the substrate, without allowing it to become waterlogged. During the growing season (spring and summer), watering should be frequent to keep the soil cool, and more frequent during hot spells. In winter, occasional watering will suffice, always ensuring that the soil doesn't dry out completely, especially in young or potted plants. It is recommended to use lime-free water to prevent leaf chlorosis; if the water in the area is hard, it is better to water with rainwater or distilled water.
Soil and substrate type
Witch hazel requires acid soils with a pH of 4 to 6, rich in organic matter, deep, fresh, and with excellent drainage. Compacted or very calcareous soils can inhibit nutrient absorption, causing chlorosis and general weakening. If grown in a pot, a specific substrate for acidophilic plants is recommended. It is also possible to mix akadama and kyriuzuna in a 70/30 ratio to promote drainage and root aeration in warm climates.
Fertilizer: Nutrition for optimal development
For vigorous development, We will pay from spring to late summer or early autumn, depending on the climate. Organic fertilizers such as guano, well-rotted manure, compost, or worm castings are recommended. If grown in a pot, use liquid fertilizer for acid-loving plants, following the recommended dosage. Nitrophoska (blue granule fertilizer) can also be added in small quantities.
Pruning and training
Witch hazel does not require severe pruning. It is enough remove dry, damaged or poorly positioned branches After flowering, in late winter or mid-spring. If you want to control the shape and size, especially in pots, you can trim the tips slightly to encourage a more compact and flowery canopy. It's important to use clean and disinfected tools to avoid infections.
Planting and transplanting
The best time to Planting or transplanting witch hazel It's best to plant in spring, just after flowering, unless the shrub is fruiting. If the fruit is still present, it's best to wait for it to ripen and dry, then repot the plant in autumn. It's vital to dig a deep hole and space the plants at least two meters apart if planted in groups to ensure optimal growth.
Growing in pots: practical tips
Witch hazel can be grown successfully in containers if a suitable soil is chosen. large, deep pot, preferably with drainage holes. It's essential to use a quality acidic substrate and partially renew the substrate every two years, repotting to a larger pot if necessary and untangling the roots to prevent them from becoming caked. Remember to water the pot more frequently, but never excessively. In cold climates, you have the advantage of being able to keep your witch hazel in a protected location during the harshest months.
Multiplication and germination
The most common way to propagate witch hazel is by seed. To achieve success, Sow the seeds as soon as they are collected or acquired. The process is the following:
- Soak the seeds for a week, changing the water daily.
- Sow them in a container with acidic substrate, covering them lightly.
- Keep the container outdoors, in a shaded area.
- Water to keep the substrate moist, but not waterlogged.
Germination occurs approximately two months after sowing, although the success rate may vary depending on the freshness of the seeds.
Plagues and diseases
The genus Hamamelis It has high resistance to pests and diseasesThe main enemy is the aphid, which can occasionally attack during the summer. To prevent this, spray the plant with neem oil. In calcareous soils, chlorosis can occur due to iron or magnesium deficiency, which can be resolved by correcting the pH or applying iron sulfate.
Ornamental and landscaping uses of witch hazel
Hamamelis is a gem for the design of gardens and terraces due to its versatility and decorative value in all seasons. It can be used as a single specimen in classical, naturalistic, or Japanese-style gardens, in groups to create free-standing hedges, or as a backdrop for borders. Its elegant appearance and spectacular flowers make it an excellent choice for winter gardens or public spaces where a touch of color is desired when few other species are in bloom.
Hamamelis flowers are also appreciated as cut flower for floral arrangements due to its longevity, aroma, and originality. Its autumn foliage adds extra beauty to the garden, and its resistance to pruning makes it suitable for small spaces and pots.
Medicinal properties and therapeutic uses
Witch hazel stands out for being one of the most used medicinal plants traditionally, especially H. virginianaIts leaves and bark contain a variety of active compounds: tannins (witch hazel), Flavonoids (with antioxidant properties), essential oils, caffeic acid and p-coumaric acid, responsible for its recognized activity astringent, anti-inflammatory, soothing and antioxidant.
- Promotes circulation and venous return: Very useful for treating varicose veins, tired legs, and other vascular problems, and is frequently used in circulation supplements and creams for heavy legs.
- Hemorrhoid Relief: Witch hazel extract is effective in ointments and compresses to reduce inflammation and pain associated with hemorrhoids.
- Astringent and healing use: Ideal for treating minor wounds, cuts, burns, bites, and sores. Its action reduces inflammation, accelerates healing, and prevents infection.
- Dermatological benefits: It's used as a facial toner for oily and acne-prone skin, helping to control oiliness, purify pores, and reduce inflammation. It's effective for acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and redness.
- After shave and after sun: Soothes post-shaving irritation and sunburn damage, quickly refreshing and disinfecting the skin.
- Relief from bags and dark circles: Witch hazel products reduce puffiness and revitalize the skin around the eyes.
- Treatment of varicose veins: Its venotonic properties improve microcirculation and venous return.
- Use in eye drops: Ophthalmic applications to soothe eye irritation and dryness.
- Antioxidant and anti-aging: Protects the skin from free radicals, prevents premature aging, and promotes a luminous and elastic complexion.
- Oral care: In mouthwashes and toothpastes to treat gum inflammation and promote oral health.
- Other uses: Gentle skin disinfectant, treatment of leg fatigue, relief of conjunctivitis, bleeding gums, and mild allergies.
Commercial presentations and forms of use
Witch hazel can be found in various forms: dried leaf infusions, extract capsules and tablets, mother tincture, lotions, creams, and gels. It is commonly used in cosmetic formulations for sensitive skin, aftershave and soothing products, as well as in pharmaceutical preparations for circulation and hemorrhoids.
Advice for use: The usual dosage of the dried plant for infusion ranges from 1,2 to 12 grams per day. Supplements should be taken as directed by the manufacturer. For topical applications, it is important to choose alcohol-free products to avoid dryness, especially on sensitive skin.
Witch hazel in natural cosmetics
In modern cosmetics, witch hazel is a key ingredient in toners, micellar waters, creams, masks, ointments, and aftershaves for all skin types, especially combination and oily skin. It is used for:
- Soothe irritated and reddened skin caused by external factors.
- Reduce enlarged pores and control excess sebum.
- Promote the healing of small lesions and acne marks.
- Provide firmness, elasticity and luminosity to the complexion.
- Prevent premature skin aging thanks to its natural antioxidants.
- Complement treatments for dermatitis, eczema and sunburn.
Precautions, contraindications and possible side effects
Despite its numerous benefits, witch hazel should be used with caution in certain cases:
- Very sensitive skin or rosacea: It is advisable to opt for alcohol-free cream or gel formats and test on a small area before general use.
- Damaged skin or open wounds: Avoid direct application to these areas to prevent irritation.
- Children under 12 years of age, pregnant and lactating women: Internal consumption is not recommended, and topical use should be consulted with a professional beforehand.
- Possible sensitivity or allergy: Contact dermatitis reactions may occur, so it is advisable to perform a skin test before regular use.
- Interaction with minerals and B vitamins: If you take supplements, space out your witch hazel intake by several hours.
- Prolonged and excessive use: May cause skin dryness or irritation; moderate frequency of topical applications.
Witch Hazel as a Supplement: Where to Find It and How to Choose the Best Product
To choose quality witch hazel supplements or cosmetics, follow these recommendations:
- Choose certified organic products, without artificial additives or preservatives.
- Read the label carefully and look for preparations with a high concentration of witch hazel extract.
- Shop at pharmacies, herbalists, organic food stores, or specialized online platforms, prioritizing recognized brands.
- Store products in airtight containers, in a cool, dry place and protected from light.
Can you grow witch hazel at home?
Yes, it's perfectly viable to grow witch hazel in the garden or even in a pot, as long as its needs for acidic soil, constant moisture, and protection from direct sun and strong winds are respected. Adaptation is gradual: the plant won't flower fully until it reaches a certain maturity (it can take several years), but once established, it will withstand the cold and beautify the space with its winter blooms and autumn colors.
Recommended combinations: enhancing the effects of witch hazel
Witch hazel can be combined with other plants and active ingredients to improve its results:
- For circulation and tired legs: Combined with Red Vine, Blackcurrant, or Ginkgo Biloba, both in supplements and topical formulas.
- For the skin: Its cosmetic use can be complemented with aloe vera, rosehip oil, or shea butter to provide hydration and enhance regeneration.
- In infusion: It can be accompanied by marshmallow to soften the flavor and reduce the possible astringent or irritating effect in sensitive people.
Frequently Asked Questions About Witch Hazel
- Is witch hazel toxic if taken orally? Internal consumption is restricted to specific preparations such as infusions, capsules, or tinctures in controlled doses. Excessive or unsupervised use may cause stomach upset.
- Can it be applied to children or babies? Its use should be limited to those over 12 years of age, unless professionally indicated.
- What can I do in case of an allergic reaction? Stop use immediately, wash the area, and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Witch hazel is a plant unparalleled in both its landscaping value and its health-promoting uses. Its easy adaptation to the garden and pots, along with the elegance of its winter blooms and the wealth of its medicinal properties, make it an excellent choice for those who wish to enjoy beauty and well-being year-round. Growing and using it, following the care and precautionary recommendations described above, guarantees spectacular results in the garden and for personal care.