Witch-hazel

Hamamelis virginiana  
 
 
 
A large, spreading shrub common along deciduous woodland edges, slopes and ravines. It prefers sandy, rocky or gravelly soil. The small yellow flowers appear very late in the season after the leaves have fallen and don't produce mature seed until the following year. Commonly planted as a large landscaping shrub. Branches can be used in late fall floral displays. Witch-hazel has been effective as an astringent, hemostatic, to treat skin irritations and as a tonic.