February was a cold and snowy month here in New Jersey. One bright spot in the plant kingdom is Witch Hazel, Hamamelis Virginiana which reaches its splendor in late February and continues on into March. These images were taken this past weekend and this stand of witch hazel is well past its bloom peak. Next year I will be sure to visit it during one of those February storms. How striking the images would be to have this stand in full bloom during winters wrath. The bright yellow flowers are extremely fragrant. The weather was warm enough on my visit for the honey bees to be active. Only some snow drops and early crocus were peaking out from last falls leave clutter to offer something else for the bees. The sweet aroma from witch hazel is such a welcome from a long, cold and snowy winter. Spring is here…it really is.
