Species PlantsDwarf Witch Alder

Dwarf Witch Alder

Fothergilla gardenii

UncommonPlant
Illustration of Dwarf Witch Alder (Fothergilla gardenii)

Dwarf Witch Alder is a compact native shrub growing 2–5 feet tall, producing spidery white bottlebrush flowers with a honey scent in early spring before the leaves emerge. Native to the Coastal Plain from Virginia to Alabama in pocosins and boggy pine barrens, it is related to witch hazel. The fall color is exceptional, turning brilliant shades of orange, yellow, and red simultaneously on the same plant. Dwarf Witch Alder is increasingly popular in native plant gardens for its multi-season interest.

Habitat
Found in moist, acidic coastal plain habitats including pocosins, wet pine barrens, and bog edges.
Diet
Fragrant flowers attract native bees and hummingbirds in spring; provides dense cover for birds.
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Dwarf Witch Alder

The best time to see a Dwarf Witch Alder is March–April, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 136 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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