Range.—Massachusetts to Florida, and west to Texas, Kansas and Michigan.
Distribution in West Virginia.—A common tree distributed throughout the State except at high elevations.
Habitat.—Prefers sandy loam. Common in thin soil of worn out fields and along fence rows.
Notes.—This species is commonly considered a weed among trees. The wood is very durable when in contact with the ground but is not often used. The fruits are eagerly eaten by birds and the aromatic bark is used for flavoring candy and medicine.
WITCH HAZEL
Hamamelis virginiana, L.
Form.—Height 15-25 feet, diameter 4-10 inches; trunk short, often inclined, bearing an irregular crown.
Leaves.—Alternate, simple, oval, 4-6 inches long, rounded at the apex, wavy-toothed, somewhat downy when young.