Witch hazel

Today's the day ..................… for an old favourite

I saw a picture of one of these recently and I had to check whether the one we have was in flower.  And sure enough, it was - which I think is pretty early?

It's such an unusual shrub with its spicy fragrance and spidery flowers in yellow, orange and red.  Hamamelis - or witch hazel as it is commonly known - was introduced into English gardens by the Quaker botanist, Peter Collinson (1694 - 1768). He was a Fellow of the Royal Society, an avid gardener, and the middleman for an international exchange of scientific ideas in 18th century London. He is best known for his horticultural friendship with the American botanist, John Bartram, also a Quaker.
 
The leaves and bark of Hamamelis virginiana can be used to produce an astringent which is used medicinally. It is mainly used externally on sores, bruises, and swelling - but you also find it in many skin care products .......................