Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana 'Little Suzie'

'Little Suzie' is a cultivar of a native deciduous shrub in the Hamamelidaceae (witch hazel) family. At 4 to 5 feet tall and wide, 'Little Suzie' is a more compact, showier shrub that blooms at a younger age and more densely than the species. The genus name Hamamelis comes from the Greek word hama, meaning at the same time, and melon, which means fruit and refers to the fact that the plant can have both flowers and fruits appear at the same time, a somewhat rare feature. The species name virginiana means the plant is from Virginia.

Grow this plant in full sun to partial shade and moist, highly organic, acidic clay soil with good drainage. It will tolerate occasional flooding and is resistant to deer. The plant also tolerates pruning to maintain its shape, but keep in mind that flowers will appear on old growth.

As a specimen, border, or hedge, ‘Little Suzie’ will brighten the garden in winter. Its early winter bloom also provides food for pollinators at a time when other plants are not in bloom, so use it in a winter, children’s, native, or pollinator garden. Its affinity for moist soil also makes it suitable for riparian areas. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Caterpillars, Japanese beetles, leaf gall aphids, weevils, scale, leafroller, and leafminer are occasional pests. Powdery mildew, leaf spots, and rots are occasional diseases. The foliage may be subject to damage from insect galls (small wasps), but it does not harm the plant.

More information on Hamamelis virginiana.