witch hazel

Hamamelis virginiana
Leaf, twig, flower, seed

Meaning

Any of several small deciduous trees, of the genus Hamamelis, having yellow flowers
An extract of the bark and/or leaves of this plant, used as an astringent

See Middle English wiche, from Old English wiċe ("pliant, bendable, weak"). Folk etymology refers to use by witches and other sorcerers of folkish magic using the plant in potions; however, compare German Zaubernuss ("witch hazel, literally 'magic nut'").

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